Liberalism for the 21st Century 2025: A Recap
On August 14-15, 2025, the Institute for the Study of Modern Authoritarianism (ISMA) hosted its second annual Liberalism for the...
for Liberal DemocracyIndividual FreedomHuman RightsPluralismTolerationOpen Society
The Institute for the Study of Modern Authoritarianism is committed to combating emerging forms of authoritarianism in the U.S. and around the world. Through The UnPopulist, its flagship publication, the annual “Liberalism for the 21st Century” conference, the largest gathering of liberals from around the world, and other important initiatives, ISMA is defending free and open societies from authoritarian attacks.
At the Institute for the Study of Modern Authoritarianism (ISMA), we are committed to defending free societies, fostering democratic resilience, and equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools to resist authoritarianism.
ISMA champions political freedom, civil liberties, and democratic governance, ensuring individuals can think, speak, and live freely.
Our in-depth research sheds light on the rise of authoritarian movements, providing essential insights for policymakers, scholars, and the public.
We create platforms for public discourse, fostering education and dialogue on the threats to democracy and how to counter them.
Through international collaboration, ISMA works with leaders, institutions, and communities to support pro-democracy movements worldwide.
To resist emerging authoritarianism in the U.S. and around the world, ISMA publishes original commentary and analysis by global thinkers, convenes movement-building events and conferences, and conducts special projects like surveying American attitudes toward populism and Executive Watch.
Our annual conference convenes top scholars, policymakers, and activists to discuss and strategize for the future of liberal democracy.
Executive Watch monitors presidential overreach and norm violations in real time. The project tracks executive abuses with regular updates to keep the public informed.
Liberal Democracy
Human Rights
Pluralism
Individual Freedom
Toleration
Open Society
Stay informed with expert commentary, in-depth research, and thought-provoking discussions on the global rise of authoritarianism and the fight to preserve free societies.
On August 14-15, 2025, the Institute for the Study of Modern Authoritarianism (ISMA) hosted its second annual Liberalism for the...
Our inaugural Liberalism for the 21st Century conference, held in Washington, D.C., July 11-12 was a big hit, receiving rave reviews all...
Praise from Writers: "The UnPopulist is a must-read." — Jonathan V. Last, editor of The Bulwark "The kind of informative,...
Join ISMA in resisting authoritarianism and strengthening free societies. Whether through research, advocacy, or community engagement, your involvement makes a difference.
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