$13-$29.50
Dates
17 MAY 2025

Strongmen are rising. Democracies are faltering. How does tyranny end?

Tyrants project invincibility, but the reality is starkly different. Whether it's their inner circle turning against them or resentment of elites in the military; masses alienated by cronyism or revolutionaries plotting in exile, tyrants always have more enemies than friends. And when they fall, tyrants don't quietly retire: they face exile, prison or death and what happens in their aftermath can change the fate of a nation.

In How Tyrants Fall German political scientist Marcel Dirsus offers astute insights into the worlds and minds of dictators, the twisted systems that keep them on top, and the ways even the most ruthless despots can be toppled.

He joins Toby Manhire to share his insights from meeting with coup leaders, dissidents and soldiers from around the world; discuss the complex nature of strongman rule, and imagine what a roadmap to a world with fewer of them might be.

Supported by The Goethe-Institut.

Also at Auckland Writers Festival

$2 per hour to a max of $12 on weekends and a $12 flat rate for weekday evenings at The Civic car park. Find out more

Last updated: 18 March 2025