Cities Against Democratic Backsliding: Evidence from Europe and Beyond

As nationalist and populist movements gain traction worldwide, democracy faces growing threats. In many cases, large cities have emerged as strongholds of progressive and democratic values, pushing back against authoritarian pressures.

This timely book explores the evolving power struggle between cities and central governments, particularly in countries led by populist regimes. It examines key issues such as decentralization, financial autonomy and participatory governance, showing how cities are leading the fight against democratic backsliding. As local governments become "laboratories of democracy”, this collection highlights their crucial role in protecting civil liberties and fostering political engagement in an era of rising extremism.

Robin Hambleton is Emeritus Professor of City Leadership in the Faculty of Environment and Technology at the University of the West of England, Bristol and Director of Urban Answers. An expert on urban innovation, city management and local governance, he was the founding President of the European Urban Research Association (EURA) and Dean of the College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs (CUPPA) at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Marta Lackowska is Professor in the Faculty of Geography and Regional Studies at the University of Warsaw, Poland.

Le Anh Nguyen Long is Assistant Professor of Public Administration at the University of Twente.

Wirginia Aksztejn is Research Assistant at the Faculty of Geography and Regional Studies at the University of Warsaw.

Ivan Tosics is Managing Director of the Metropolitan Research Institute in Budapest.