Why Fascists Hate Universities

Authoritarian regimes often target universities as they are seen as centers of dissent and critique. Recent events in Bangladesh illustrate this dynamic, where student protests against a quota system escalated into a nationwide pro-democracy movement, ultimately leading to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This movement has inspired similar actions in Pakistan, where students are demanding the release of imprisoned opposition leader Imran Khan. The article highlights that attacks on universities are indicative of rising fascism, as seen in countries like India and Hungary, where leaders like Narendra Modi and Viktor Orbán have launched campaigns against educational institutions. In the U.S., figures like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have also targeted universities, undermining academic freedom and promoting a politically charged atmosphere. The Republican Party's awareness of the potential power of student movements suggests a strategy to suppress dissent, particularly as anti-genocide protests in American universities have faced backlash. The author argues that the courage of students in Bangladesh demonstrates that authoritarian strategies can be countered effectively.

- Authoritarian regimes view universities as threats due to their role in fostering dissent.

- The student-led pro-democracy movement in Bangladesh has inspired similar activism in Pakistan.

- Leaders like Modi and Orbán have targeted universities to suppress dissent and promote their agendas.

- In the U.S., political figures are undermining academic freedom and targeting educational institutions.

- The response of students in Bangladesh shows that authoritarian tactics can be challenged successfully.