The rise of far-right authoritarianism around the world can feel overwhelming. And we’re seeing it here in Australia. Every day seems to bring another attack on democratic institutions, another culture war, another outrage designed to make us angry, frightened or exhausted. It is easy to feel powerless. Easy to believe that nothing we do matters.History suggests otherwise.One of the most important lessons from the history of fascism is that democracies are rarely destroyed overnight. They are we

One of the most important lessons from the history of fascism is that democracies are rarely destroyed overnight. They are weakened gradually. Trust erodes. Institutions are undermined. Citizens become divided, cynical and disengaged. People retreat into tribes and begin to see each other not as neighbours but as enemies.

The good news is that the reverse is also true. Democracy strengthens gradually. Through countless acts of participation, solidarity, courage and community. So what can we do?