Defending Democracy with Humor and Dilemma Actions Tactics

Successful broad-based, pro-democracy fronts often rely on a range of tactics and strategies to engage more people in their cause. One particularly powerful approach is the use of dilemma actions, which place authoritarian regimes in a bind where any response they make will either backfire or highlight the absurdity of their oppression. By combining such tactics with creative use of humor, these movements can magnify their impact. Humor, when paired with dilemma actions, does not just entertain—it can expose the contradictions of tyranny in a way that leaves regimes struggling to respond without losing legitimacy.

Movements worldwide have used jokes, memes, and comedic videos not only to raise awareness but also to create situations where authoritarian figures are forced to react to ridicule. This strategic use of humor can catch people off guard, sparking dialogue and inviting more open-minded discussions about serious issues. It also plays a crucial role in building a sense of agency within individuals and the movement, shifting power dynamics by turning the symbols of oppression against their wielders. So, how can a pro-democracy movement leverage both humor and dilemma actions to attract more people to its cause? What kinds of humor resonate with different audiences, and how can these actions be employed to corner regimes in ways that expose their weaknesses? How can these tactics be used in the US context?

Movement organizers and scholars from Serbia, Zimbabwe, and the United States, explored how pro-democracy movements can use humor, dilemma actions, and other creative tactics to upend power imbalances, inspire agency, and foster a resilient, sustainable coalition. Learn from global experiences on the effective use of these strategies in defending democracy.

Panelists include:

• Sophia McClennen (USA) – Director of the Center for Global Studies, and Professor of International Affairs and Comparative Literature at Pennsylvania State University.
• Khumbulani Maphosa (Zimbabwe) – Director of the Matabeleland Institute for Human Rights
• Ivan Marovic (Serbia) – International Center on Nonviolent Conflict
• Pedro Silva (USA) – Founder of The Liberation Comedy Project
• David Purdue (USA) – Activist and Comedian
• Moderator: Xochilt Hernandez (Organizing Fellow at Horizons Project)

If you missed the event, go here for a recording of the event.