Elon Musk’s endorsement of Javier Milei exemplifies the influence of technofascism on democracies, as likes on social media overshadow meaningful democratic participation. Both Argentina and the UK reveal the dangers of authoritarianism disguised as democracy, particularly concerning women’s rights. The protests following Milei’s controversial remarks exemplify global resistance to the extreme right, signaling the need for robust opposition to these ideologies.
On January 18, 2024, Elon Musk provocatively highlighted Argentina’s President Javier Milei in a post on X, using an explicit image to underscore their shared ideology of extreme individualism. While Musk was congratulating Milei on his inaugural address at the World Economic Forum, the post amassed nearly a million likes, showcasing how digital platforms can distort democratic engagement.
In deteriorating democracies, the abundance of likes often surpasses the reality of votes, undermining the essence of democratic governance. Authoritarian democracies, characterized by a lack of genuine participation and debate, persist even as elections occur, blurring the lines between true democratic practice and its facade. This erosion is not a mere speculation about the future but a current reality.
The Americas offer compelling examples of how elections can be both legitimate and manipulated, as seen with Donald Trump in the U.S. and his pardoning of Capitol rioters, and the failed coup against Brazil’s Luiz “Lula” de Silva. The repercussions of these actions reverberate internationally, demonstrating that events in one nation can influence the political landscape elsewhere.
Concurrently, technofascism seeks to exert control over democratic processes, evidenced by Musk’s endorsement of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany party. This influence extends beyond political support, as seen in Musk’s controversial statements regarding civil unrest in the UK, illustrating a pattern of interference that threatens democratic norms.
Though Argentina and the UK have different historical contexts, the impact of technofascism is evident in both countries. Musk, a significant figure in shaping far-right sentiment, has also exacerbated tensions regarding immigration and women’s rights across nations. The connection between these phenomena underscores a universal struggle against authoritarian tendencies masked as democracy.
Milei’s contentious remarks on LGBTQ+ issues and femicide prompted widespread protests in February 2024, with millions participating globally. This outcry reflects a unified response required to combat the rising misogyny and authoritarianism represented by extreme right ideologies, with Argentina serving as a focal point for these critical issues.
The extreme right’s agenda often perpetuates misogyny, exploiting societal pain for political gain. Hence, authorities like Milei have taken steps to dismantle protections against gender violence, showcasing a fundamental disregard for women’s voices and issues. Key governmental institutions catering to women’s rights have faced significant budget cuts and retractions under his administration.
A recent incident involving an ill-fated meme coin promoted by Milei highlights the precarious nature of his governance, with investigations into fraud and potential impeachment looming. The critical question remains whether online actions could be deemed criminal and whether social media can effectively supplant the democratic process.
The emergence of movements like Ni Una Menos illustrates the dual role of social media, serving both as a platform for activism and a means for manipulation. It is the exploitation and manipulation of language and digital platforms that threaten the very foundations of democracy, as algorithms increasingly dictate societal governance rather than the people’s choice.
The situation in Argentina exemplifies the perils of authoritarian democracy, where electoral processes can exist alongside significant repression and manipulation. The influence of technofascism, illustrated through the actions of powerful figures, poses a grave threat to democratic institutions and women’s rights. Mass protests reveal a strong resistance to such ideologies, highlighting the need for global solidarity against rising authoritarianism. As social media continues to evolve, so does the challenge of ensuring genuine democratic engagement instead of algorithmic control.
Original Source: www.prospectmagazine.co.uk
