Javier Corrales to Discuss Authoritarianism in Venezuela at Instant Issues on Sept. 10

SPRINGFIELD — The World Affairs Council of Western Massachusetts will present its first Instant Issues lunchtime discussion of the 2025-26 program year with Javier Corrales, Dwight W. Morrow 1895 professor of Political Science and department chair of Political Science at Amherst College.

He will present “Autocracy Rising: How Venezuela Transitioned to Authoritarianism” on Wednesday, Sept. 10 from noon to 1 p.m. at 1350 Main St., ninth floor gallery, in downtown Springfield.

Corrales, a frequent World Affairs Council speaker, coined the term ‘autocratic legalism’ in 2015 to explain how Venezuela transitioned to authoritarianism by using the legal system to impose autocracy. Corrales is the author of many publications; his most recent book is Autocracy Rising: How Venezuela Transitioned to Authoritarianism, published in 2022.

Admission is $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Lunches can be reserved for $25 for members and $30 for non-members. Box lunches include a choice of sandwich (turkey, tuna, roast beef, or vegetarian), deli salad, cookie, chips, and soda or water. Attendees may bring their own lunch or choose not to eat.

Registration deadline for a lunch provided is Friday, Sept. 5. Click here to register.