Anne Applebaum on Autocracy Inc., Trump, and US-Canada Tensions
Feb 11, 2025
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Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and historian, dives into her latest book, 'Autocracy Inc.', revealing the rising tide of authoritarianism worldwide. She discusses the collaboration among autocratic nations like Russia and China against democratic values. The talk touches on deteriorating U.S.-Canada relations, driven by trade tensions and tariffs, while also examining the role of climate policy in shaping political narratives. Applebaum highlights the challenges democracies face today and Canada's resilience in navigating these turbulent waters.
Anne Applebaum highlights the strategic collaboration among autocratic nations, revealing how they share technologies and resources to undermine democratic principles.
Discussions on Canada’s energy policy stress the importance of diversifying energy partnerships beyond the U.S. to enhance economic security and resilience.
Deep dives
Insights on Autocracies and Collaboration
Many autocratic countries, despite their different ideologies, are finding common ground for collaboration. Anne Applebaum discusses how nations like Russia, China, and Venezuela engage in mutually beneficial interactions, whether through financial investments or sharing surveillance technologies. For instance, the transfer of surveillance methods and money laundering strategies among these states showcases their tactical partnerships. The sharing extends beyond technology to mutual military cooperation, reflecting a united front against shared adversaries, which includes democratic principles.
Canada's Economic Vulnerabilities
The recent imposition of tariffs by the U.S. highlights the vulnerabilities Canada faces due to its heavy economic dependence on its southern neighbor. With a significant portion of Canadian trade tied to the U.S., there are concerns that any tension can lead to severe consequences for the Canadian economy. The dialogue also reveals the precarious reliance on American imports for crude oil and natural gas, emphasizing the urgent need for Canada to establish more diverse energy partnerships. This dependency necessitates a strategic shift toward enhancing energy security and diversifying trade alliances.
The Impact of Authoritarian Behavior on Democracy
The dialogue reflects a growing anxiety about the stability of democracies in light of rising authoritarian sentiments. Applebaum notes that while democracies may have weaknesses, autocracies are not as invulnerable as they may appear, with undercurrents of economic discontent posing threats to their longevity. The argument suggests that irrational decision-making, a characteristic of authoritarian leaders, can destabilize international relations and spur unexpected challenges. As democratic institutions face pressure, it becomes essential to advocate for strengthened coalitions and proactive opposition to safeguard democratic practices.
The Future of Energy Policy and International Cooperation
Canada's energy policy is at a critical juncture, with discussions centered on the need for alternatives beyond reliance on the U.S. market. The podcast emphasizes the potential benefits of forming energy alliances with other nations, particularly European and Asian partners, to bolster economic resilience. Applebaum suggests that Canada's security can be enhanced by strategically diversifying its energy exports. As global tensions rise, rethinking energy dependencies and fostering international cooperation becomes increasingly vital for the nation's future.
This week, our guest is Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, historian, and New York Times bestselling author. Her latest book, Autocracy Inc.: The Dictators Who Want to Run the World, explores the global rise of authoritarianism.
On February 6th, 2025, Anne spoke at the University of Calgary's Haskayne School of Business annual PETRONAS International Energy Speaker Series. This episode was recorded live at the event.
Jackie Forrest moderated the discussion with Anne Applebaum, which covered a wide range of topics, including the timing of her new book, the Trump administration’s early actions and executive orders, and the recent deterioration of Canadian-US relations.