Democracies face threats that do not always present themselves directly or conventionally. Currently, there is a systematic application of destabilization strategies aimed at undermining democratic governments and forcing their downfall without resorting to a classic coup d'état.
This method, known as "soft coup," is structured in well-defined phases, each designed to progressively weaken the current government until it reaches a point of irreversible crisis.
Phase 1: Softening
The first step consists of intensifying conflicts and fostering popular discontent. Through marches, protests, strikes, and other pressure mechanisms, the aim is to generate a sense of permanent crisis.
Meanwhile, the media and opposition sectors develop opinion matrices focused on real or fictitious problems, amplifying failures in wages, health, or education to erode trust in the government.
Additionally, factors of social unrest are promoted, such as shortages, crime, or manipulation of economic expectations. This stage is also fueled by corruption allegations, sectarian intrigues, and conspiratorial narratives that deepen instability.
Phase 2: Delegitimization (current phase)
At this point, the strategy shifts to manipulating public opinion, attacking the government's legitimacy. Historical prejudices against private property, business, police, and concepts like neoliberalism are exploited.
The opposition discourse is radicalized through the idea that the government limits press freedom and human rights. Allegations of censorship and persecution of journalists are added, aiming to feed the perception of an authoritarian regime.
Accusations of totalitarianism and single-mindedness are reinforced, and social confrontation deepens through ethical-political fracture. More violent protests are promoted, seeking to generate injuries or deaths to construct the narrative of a dictatorship.
