The Rise Of Neo-Feudalism - Let's Be Vigilant

Authoritarian regimes often work through a modern form of feudalism. Part of the war in Ukraine was under this logic, especially with the Wagner Group.

This feudal group of mercenaries is now operating in West Africa

Strangely enough, some democracies may adopt their own form of neo-feudalism, in domestic and foreign affairs.

Politics is no longer a public or republican affair, it’s mostly conducted by strong individuals who may share a common interest in promoting their agendas and neutralizing the “rival gangs”. But these feudal friendships are often ephemeral and purely tactical. Yesterday’s best friend may become tomorrow’s villain.

The term neo-feudalism was first used in the field of economics.

But large sectors of politics may be tempted by the solutions of feudalism, in words and in deeds. Neo- feudalism has a very specific and distinct vocabulary and rhetoric. It is a form of newspeak (George Orwell)

The public opinion should be aware of that.

Neo-feudalism may offer some short term advantages.

It may also destroy our modern legacy, called the representative system, which is not perfect, but has proved strong enough to overcome major crises.

Let’s be vigilant

Laurent Ladouce