Across the globe, the term “authoritarian playbook” has been mentioned frequently by social scientists and analysts. Although not a literal book, it symbolizes a pattern that aspiring dictators often follow to secure their control.
Since the early 21st century, leaders in countries like Russia and Venezuela have manipulated democratic frameworks to undermine democracy itself. A striking factor in their success is the absence of a robust strategy by defenders of democracy to counter these authoritarian measures.
Organizations supporting democratic principles, including various nonprofits and media entities, often struggle to mount an effective defense due to limited precedents and disjointed responses in many regions.
As a sociologist examining the impact of nonprofit membership on democratic values and the operation of nonprofits in authoritarian contexts, I am currently focused on how American nonprofits are addressing recent challenges threatening their autonomy.
These organizations have shown unexpected resilience in the face of adversity.
Nonprofits Under Pressure
During the second Trump presidency, significant financial cuts were imposed on nonprofits dedicated to enhancing healthcare, childcare, and food access for low-income populations. Additionally, foreign aid to developing nations saw reductions.
Nonprofits like Oxfam, Save the Children, and the International Rescue Committee, which had been instrumental in executing U.S. foreign aid policies, faced significant setbacks when the U.S. Agency for International Development was dismantled.
Moreover, the Trump administration imposed constraints on nonprofit operations, limiting their political independence. Notably, changes were made to a program forgiving student loans for nonprofit employees, excluding those working for organizations not favored by the administration.
Further, nonprofits engaged in advocacy have been threatened with criminal charges, despite advocacy being legal.
The Role of Congress
Congressional hearings have compounded these challenges, with some nonprofits being accused of activities like smuggling migrants or making improper financial transactions.
In a 2026 House hearing, allegations were made against the Future Farmers of America for purported links to the Chinese Communist Party.
The executive branch has also exerted pressure. Following the death of activist Charlie Kirk, Vice President JD Vance and President Trump targeted nonprofits labeled as fostering violence or promoting “anti-American” ideals.
Attorney General Pam Bondi instructed field offices to pursue prosecutions against nonprofits labeled as “domestic terrorist organizations,” based on a broad definition of left-wing terrorism.
Legislatively, a bill was proposed to allow the Treasury to classify nonprofits as “terrorist-supporting” and revoke their tax-exempt status. However, such measures have seen limited implementation so far.
The Nonprofit Response
Internationally, authoritarian pressures on nonprofits often result in either compromise or closure. Yet, in the U.S., nonprofits are proactively collaborating to defend against these threats.
A significant Zoom meeting among nonprofit leaders in April 2025 was overwhelmed with interest, highlighting the sector’s mobilization efforts.
Thousands of nonprofits have signed letters opposing the administration’s policies, such as the September 2025 letter by 3,700 nonprofits contesting the classification of nonprofits as “domestic terrorists.”
In response to governmental threats, the Open Society Foundations pledged $300 million for legal support for affected nonprofits.
Foundations like the Marguerite Casey Foundation, McKnight Foundation, and MacArthur Foundation have increased funding to nonprofits losing federal support.
Adapting to Survival
While some nonprofits have actively resisted, others have adapted by altering mission statements or removing contentious language to avoid political ire.
The removal of diversity, equity, and inclusion references from IRS documents and websites has been a common tactic, with organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline censoring information to maintain funding.
Historically, weak nonprofit sectors have been vulnerable in authoritarian regimes. However, the U.S. nonprofit sector’s resilience could serve as a blueprint for similar struggles elsewhere.
