I lived in Venezuela 30 years! I am a US citizen married to a Venezuelan. I cannot understand why the Venezuelans living in the US voted for Trump. They hate the far left, so they voted far right, but could not see that all autocrats are the same and use the same methods.They are identical. I think they are looking for a strong man to defeat a strong man, but as you pointed out, they all end up working together. Democracy takes work! The perceived quick fix of strong man politics just leads to loss of freedom, pain and despair. I want to thank you Leopoldo for your vision, integrity and strength of character.
In my opinion multiple reasons: 1. Not satisfied with the Biden administration not doing enough for the Venezuela situation 2. Hope that Trump will do more to help end Maduro's regime 3. Targeted propaganda and disinformation, many false propaganda like making people believe that the democracy party of Kamala Harris will bing communism, socialism.( which is false but I read many comments about that) . And I guess other issues like believing it's better for the economy. Autocrats come to power by lying and confusing people that the current system and opponents are bad and evil and they are the solution and they appeal to people by making people believe they will bring radical change and solve the issues. That was the case for Hugo Chavez that appealed to the poor people of Venezuela that had the hope to improve their life situation but at the end it brought more poverty and misery to the people, and the one taking most profit of the country wealth are the regime and its allies.
They have forgotten that dictators have arisen from both right-wing and left-wing ideologies. There are so many similarities between the political styles of Donald Trump and Hugo Chávez, despite their different ideologies. Both have used a populist approach, positioning themselves as champions of "the people" against "the elite" or established political institutions, etc.
You must be extremely brainwashed. Trump was president already and didn’t do anything against democracy as opposed to the democrats that went after their political opponent using bogus charges weaponizing the courts to prevent WE THE PEOPLE to vote for the candidate they chose. You are chavista 🤮
Since 5.7 billion people live in autocratic states obviously merely numerically we have strength. We must connect all those people and fight together to restore freedom and democracy worldwide. Viva la libertad.
They weren't sitting on the comfy couch like millions of Americans do and have done for the last 40-50 YEARS!!! NEVER EVER FORGET IRAQ! THE FLAG DRAPED COFFINS COMING HOME BY THE THOUSANDS 💔
@@ajohnymous282 The candidate who to this day denies the results of the free and fair 2020 election and who then attempted to overturn his defeat was allowed to be on the ballot. That will be remembered as the beginning of the end of our democracy.
I used to live where he was major. I saw him training with the police. He ran that place like a clock. I 100% believe in him. Nobody told me, I SAW it with my own very eyes. While the country was falling apart, he stood on his own two feet and took care of us.
One way to fight is to stop unnecessary consumerism because it is how the top 10% has more wealth. As well as the huge tax cuts they've been given since the 1980's. People only need to buy absolute necessities and buy second hand while they have a choice.
@@ofirargyou keep saying this, but the point is not that trump was not elected democratically (because he was). The point is that trump is an autocrar not a democratic minded person. America failed to recognize that, or failed to recognize that this fact was the most important in the election.
We are going to definitely learn a thing or two from this, considering the position the United States is now in. But those of us that love democracy are not going down a without a fight.
@@ofirargyes we still had an election. But trump has extremely autocratic tendencies ie suggesting running for a third term, silencing the people/news networks that disagree with him etc. He is not a sane person. And an egomaniac. Very dangerous cocktail for a leader. But I guess you’ll see for yourself, unless your algorithm is already super cooked.
@shaboodle he wasn't the one that used lawfair against his political oppnents and tried to criminalize "missinformation" to surpress other opinions and even to criminalize parodies.
@@ofirarg Donald Trump’s tenure as president of the United States has been criticized by some as exhibiting autocratic tendencies. Here are some of the key points often cited: 1. Undermining Democratic Institutions • Discrediting the Press: Frequently labeled the media as “fake news” and the “enemy of the people,” undermining trust in independent journalism. • Judiciary Attacks: Criticized judges and court decisions that went against him, undermining confidence in the judiciary. • Election Doubts: Repeatedly questioned the legitimacy of the electoral process, especially regarding mail-in voting and the 2020 election results. 2. Concentration of Power • Executive Orders: Relied heavily on executive orders to bypass Congress, often circumventing the legislative process. • Loyalty over Expertise: Prioritized personal loyalty over qualifications when selecting advisors and Cabinet members, frequently firing or sidelining those who disagreed with him. 3. Erosion of Accountability • Avoiding Oversight: Ignored congressional subpoenas and blocked investigations into his administration. • Pardoning Allies: Used presidential pardon power to benefit political allies and associates, sometimes in ways perceived as self-serving. 4. Normalization of Authoritarian Rhetoric • Praise for Strongmen: Frequently praised autocratic leaders such as Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong-un, and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, often contrasting them favorably with democratic leaders. • Dismissive of Allies: Criticized traditional democratic allies and international institutions like NATO. 5. Undermining Rule of Law • Politicization of Justice: Pressured the Department of Justice to protect his interests and investigate opponents. • Use of Government Resources for Personal Gain: Allegedly leveraged government resources, such as withholding aid to Ukraine, for personal political advantage. 6. Attempts to Stay in Power • Refusal to Commit to Peaceful Transfer of Power: Avoided unequivocal commitments to respecting election outcomes during his presidency. • January 6th Insurrection: Encouraged supporters to challenge the certification of the 2020 election results, culminating in the Capitol riot. 7. Manipulating Public Perception • Cult of Personality: Fostered a highly personalized political movement centered on his identity, often discouraging dissent or criticism within his base. • Polarizing Tactics: Employed divisive rhetoric to consolidate power by deepening societal divisions. 8. Weakening of Checks and Balances • Sidestepping Congress: Attempted to use emergency declarations to fund policies like the border wall after Congress denied funding. • Attacks on Independent Agencies: Targeted independent agencies and watchdogs, firing inspectors general who investigated misconduct within his administration. These tendencies are often cited in academic and political discussions about the erosion of democratic norms under his leadership. However, assessments vary, with supporters arguing that many actions were within the scope of presidential authority or a response to unprecedented opposition.
This talk came at the perfect time. From my experience, not only is authoritarianism on the rise these days, I'm seeing more and more people in the freedom movements I'm in start to reject democracy and it's been a demoralising experience. Now we need people like you more than ever. Thank you Leopoldo! Sincerely, a young woman from Hong Kong
Excellent and inspiring speech, dear Leopoldo. From Ciudad Guayana, Venezuela, I wish you the best acting as General Secretary in the World Liberty Council @worldlibertycongress on behalf of the global pupulation living under autocratic regimes such as the hegemonic authoritarianism in Venezuela ¡Fuerza y fe!
We don't value our freedom until it is taken from us. US has a lot to learn based on the results of these last elections. We are about to get into a bumpy ride on the next 4 years with so much uncertainty and fear because that's what autocrats are all about. Thank you for formulating the results of such an autocratic system and what it actually means for the people rights and freedom.
Most important lesson, it’s a very necessary to everybody see this. Inspiring us to start out fight in Africans countries. To change that system, because we are living inside the jail, even known that we are in our country. Stop autocratic, and long live for democracy.
This is probably the most important thing for humanity looking forward. And it goes hand in hand with the fight to overcome the poison of nihilism, which began in the mid 1800s.
Es admirable tu valentía, te admiro, confío en tí como líder no dejaremos la lucha por nuestra democracia, espero que a través de tus palabras puedan escuchar el clamor que estamos pasando los Venezolanos aquí y en el mundo entero. ¡Vamos que viva la democracia! 🇻🇪 💪🧡
Great job Leopoldo!!!… what a great initiative it is to get all freedom fighters together to face off a network of autocrats that are being very successful at taking over the world… thank you and thanks to the whole alliance of freedom and democracy fighters for opening our eyes…
This reminds me of the biblical tower of Babel story, where there's an emphasis on "one" language and people. Empires are often created by the destruction of cultures, one over another, and it reminds me of autocracy. May we work towards equality and freedom for our all fellow human brothers and sisters.
Bravo Leopoldo! Lider eres nuestra voz en el mundo, que nuestra lucha por la libertad y la democracia, sea visible en cada rincón del mundo. Basta de normalizar una brutal dictadura . como país este año marcamos un récord de organización democrática en las elecciones del 28 de julio. Confio en que pronto seremos libres para reconstruir la mejor Venezuela. Que viva Venezuela 🇻🇪 libre! Si se puede carajo! Dios con nosotros 🙏
In a democracy the rule of law applies to everyone equally. Freedom doesn't exist where Oppression exists. Use your voice. Call and/or email your elected Representatives. Tell them your opinion, tell them facts, they don't know if you don't tell them. 🤗🗽⚖️
Tenemos que apoyar la democracia y todos los movimientos de libertad. Venezuela lo necesita. El mundo debe leer y escuchar estás palabras de Leopoldo y ayudar a Venezuela. 🆘 🆘... Necesitamos empatía y solidaridad para la libertad y la democracia.
I hope that my hoverment which is now going to have a pre-time election will listen to him too. We will loose all democratic successes With conern and love from Germany 🇩🇪
it’s never too late to organize, stick together and plan how to resist anything and anyone. why do you think trumokin has divided and separated people? if we all stuck together he wouldn’t have a chance
Inspirational. But I truly hope this isn't one of those Venezuelans that voted for Trump. Being of Cuban descent, I can't believe how many ignorant Cubans voted for Trump, all because of either being somehow relevant to Florida, or because we've always voted (usually) Republican but this time they just don't see how he's the closest thing we've ever seen in this country to a dictator or an autocrat- whilst also externally and blatantly corrupt and fascist. What a confused bunch of groups there are out there, and all voting for OUR way of life, at that!
It's the corporate oligarchs, Clinton, Biden, musk, Trump, etc. with the help of ultra capitalist mainstream media, they are throwing all the regular citizens under the bus. And brought us to the brink of world war III
As a venezuelan, this is about to be a very divided comment section. Some people think of him as a hero because he went to prison and was persecuted politically only due to being the opposition of Chavez and Maduro's regime. Other people think he arranged and made deals with the venezuelan government to turn himself in and make a whole spectacle about it and then later moved to Madrid, Spain where he now lives in a luxurious neighborhood. I don't think anybody but him knows the truth because whatever he chose to do, I think if even in the beginning, was well intended and he wanted to save our country but Venezuela's worst and greatest thing is their own people. People cared more about making memes about this man and how ripped he was getting in jail than fighting for truth, democracy and justice. In a country that is so obsessed with beautiful women, miss universe, long weekends, hanging out, beer and beaches, and any political victory at all that is achieved is quickly allowed to be stolen what is one man supposed to do? How is one man (with a family of his own) supposed to sacrifice his whole life for a country with people that protest for a week and then everything goes back to normal. If you're not actively fighting to save the country yourself, you should probably hold out on any judgments of this man. I believe that he thought that the country would back him and we didn't. Venezuela is lost and will never be what it once was and it is not this man's fault.
The thing is that he wasn't just "one man", he and his placeholder (Guaidó) had all possible support from other governments and the majority of Venezuelans. But as usual, the venezuelan opposition failed the people and made sure that the tyranny remains in power. They betrayed us, time and time again, and you expect us to spill our blood for them after they all end up in the same place? He turned himself in, he negotiated his freedom, he left Venezuela.
Same as Navalny in russia - he funded his pres electoral campaign, his own anti-corruption fund and sent his daughter to study in uni in San Francisco - all on money that he claimed he received from usual people's donations and "interested private companies" that he never disclosed. There should be no such thing as "peaceful protest" against autocracy in countries with no opposition - only coup.
Así es. el solo fue una víctima más y listo. Todos hemos intentado hacer algo por el país y hasta ahora nadie ha podido contra el poder político (alto mando militar)
Clavado. La mayoría de argentinos somos similares. Aún tenemos la gracia de poder utilizar las urnas cuando queremos decir algo más que sólo quejarnos mientras tomamos un matecito sentados cómodos frente a la TV; pero aún así no es suficiente, a veces, porque requiere mucho más que lo simplemente establecido.... debe ser un movimiento continuo, que no pare, que no se enfríe, que se traspase la voz entre generaciones. Y que la historia no se olvide. Empieza por uno mismo, debe haber un ruido interno que nos lleve a buscar algo que nos supera llevar adelante pero que no es posible siquiera si un solo eslabón se pierde. Pensé que su charla iba a ser estrictamente política pero llegué apreciar su belleza; y que incluso en prisión se puede salvar una vida :)
It's so similar with us. I am from Russia, and we had an opposition Aleksey Navalniy. When he was free, there were a lot of people saying that he made a deal with government to do this and to do that and so on. But then he was poisoned, survived, then arrested and finally killed in prison. Now nobody say that he made any deal with government, but we lost him forever. People are stupid or spoiled so much, that they can't think that there are people, who really care about someone except themselves.
Democracy is the voice of the many and autocracy is the voice of the few. If people can unite globally the voice of democracy will drown the voice of autocracy.
Unfortunately unless something happens, it looks like democracy is being brought down everywhere. We're failing and every year democracy scores fall worldwide bringing world more and more authoritarian. The only way to save it is by creating something stronger, something that can overcome our divide, something that can unite us. But currently AI algorithms on social media divide us and make truth and fact irrelevant. Dictators use that for their own benefit. In other words we're still falling and it's far from hitting rock bottom. Fighting for freedom is getting more and more important every day.
This man and his talk gives me hope. One thing I am having trouble understanding is: in an autocratic country, how do the autocrats maintain their wealth when the people are living in poverty?
@@Michele-z4k 1. Wealth from land ownership = levying taxes rents (limited land ownership for anyone in middle / lower class). Vassals pledged loyalty in exchange for land (effectively creating a pyramid scheme). 2. Merchants could create personal wealth but opportunities were limited - it was necessary to sign up for apprenticeships/ indentured servitude to learn a trade. Opportunities to start new businesses were limited and dependent on approval of the local lord (autocrat).
Gracias líder por el trabajo arduo en favor de la democracia. Es necesario tomar la ofensiva y dejar de legitimar los autocratas. Seguimos creyendo que la mejor Venezuela es posible y que pronto volveremos a casa para juntos construirla.
Necesitamos tener confianza, siento que lo más difícil lo hicimos y confío en que TODOS a nivel internacional nos van ayudar y lo vamos a lograr, Libertad y Democracia yo creo en la mejor Venezuela Leopoldo siempre nos dijo visualizala y se que ya viene💪🏼🧡🇻🇪
Vivir en democracia con libertad y respeto a los derechos humanos de los ciudadanos sin ningún tipo de discriminación es un deber de todos los países civilizados.
Yes but we could have voted for other options. Dr Jill Stein and Dr West were much better candidates. RFK Jr had a great campaign that was sabotaged by the corporate dem elites. Believe it or not, BILL CLINTON would rather have Donald Trump in office then a Bernie Sanders or Nina Turner. Just the cold hard facts. The super rich are the kings and queens of our country. They play by different rules
Es muy clara la enseñanza viva la democracia y libertad Al principio no creía mucho en su ideología hoy en día La defiendo por qué es la verdad Mi admiración y respeto
Beautiful, thank you so much for your courage to fight for the protection of Democracy around the globe!!! I would love to know more about what I can personally do as a US citizen to protect democracy and freedom 💙
Palabras de un líder grandioso, así como cada uno de los que estamos en Venezuela y gritamos libertad y justicia, Mucha ha sido la lucha del hombre por su libertad y dignidad. No cierren sus oídos a la súplica 🆘🆘🆘⛑️⛑️⛑️ ayuda. Hoy nosotros, pero no en vano muchos países han necesitado el apoyo del mundo para consolidar sus sueños. Venezuela voto por amor y para ser libre. Libertad para Venezuela 🇻🇪
Autocrats work together? Yes they do. But it's a temporary and a brittle alliance of convenience. The moment they get an opportunity they try to overtake each other or at least take advantage of each other.
Nancyr as my ex husband said, only 15% of people in the world are white and if the other 85% realized that, that 15% wouldn’t stand a chance. i’m white but im a hater of racism and a defender of other colors and marginalized people. i’m a kids nurse and my dad lived through naziism and he told me all about it.
Bravo Leopoldo! Ese es mi líder! Sigo confiando en La Mejor Venezuela. Sé que pronto estarás en nuestro país dando un discurso como este. Vamos a recuperar la democracia.
Why only 59,000 views and only 313 comments on this important TEDtalk?! If some singer or athlete broke up with their partner, the post would “go viral”- 🤦🏻♀️
Bravo Leopoldo sigo confiando en la mejor Venezuela, se que pronto estarás en nuestro país dando un discurso como ese, será necesario cuando recuperemos la Democracia 🙏
Thank you, thank you for this. If you say that the autocrats are working together, people dismiss you as a conspiracist. If more people can say this out loud we can find each other and work together. Thank you for giving us the permission structure to speak up
I lived in Venezuela 30 years! I am a US citizen married to a Venezuelan. I cannot understand why the Venezuelans living in the US voted for Trump. They hate the far left, so they voted far right, but could not see that all autocrats are the same and use the same methods.They are identical. I think they are looking for a strong man to defeat a strong man, but as you pointed out, they all end up working together. Democracy takes work! The perceived quick fix of strong man politics just leads to loss of freedom, pain and despair. I want to thank you Leopoldo for your vision, integrity and strength of character.
As a Venezuelan, I have asked myself the exact same question everyday.
In my opinion multiple reasons: 1. Not satisfied with the Biden administration not doing enough for the Venezuela situation 2. Hope that Trump will do more to help end Maduro's regime 3. Targeted propaganda and disinformation, many false propaganda like making people believe that the democracy party of Kamala Harris will bing communism, socialism.( which is false but I read many comments about that) . And I guess other issues like believing it's better for the economy. Autocrats come to power by lying and confusing people that the current system and opponents are bad and evil and they are the solution and they appeal to people by making people believe they will bring radical change and solve the issues. That was the case for Hugo Chavez that appealed to the poor people of Venezuela that had the hope to improve their life situation but at the end it brought more poverty and misery to the people, and the one taking most profit of the country wealth are the regime and its allies.
They have forgotten that dictators have arisen from both right-wing and left-wing ideologies. There are so many similarities between the political styles of Donald Trump and Hugo Chávez, despite their different ideologies. Both have used a populist approach, positioning themselves as champions of "the people" against "the elite" or established political institutions, etc.
@we.are.the.observers exactly!
You must be extremely brainwashed. Trump was president already and didn’t do anything against democracy as opposed to the democrats that went after their political opponent using bogus charges weaponizing the courts to prevent WE THE PEOPLE to vote for the candidate they chose. You are chavista 🤮
Fight, Fight, Fight, for Democracy around the world.
TO THE PEOPLE IN MYANMAR FIGHTING FOR DEMOCRACY AND AGAINST AUTOCRACY, MAY COURAGE, RESILLANCE, AND HOPE GUIDE EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.
Since 5.7 billion people live in autocratic states obviously merely numerically we have strength. We must connect all those people and fight together to restore freedom and democracy worldwide. Viva la libertad.
I’m so glad to hear this today as I mourn the loss of our own Democracy this month.
Same! 😢
Democracy worked as intended. The person with the most votes won. The thing that failed was the intelligence of the people who voted.
They weren't sitting on the comfy couch like millions of Americans do and have done for the last 40-50 YEARS!!!
NEVER EVER FORGET IRAQ! THE FLAG DRAPED COFFINS COMING HOME BY THE THOUSANDS 💔
@@ajohnymous282since St Ronnie Raygun back decades ago!!!!!!
What have Americans done? SIT AND WATCH ENTERTAINMENT DAY AND NIGHT 🤭🤣
@@ajohnymous282 The candidate who to this day denies the results of the free and fair 2020 election and who then attempted to overturn his defeat was allowed to be on the ballot. That will be remembered as the beginning of the end of our democracy.
I used to live where he was major. I saw him training with the police. He ran that place like a clock. I 100% believe in him. Nobody told me, I SAW it with my own very eyes. While the country was falling apart, he stood on his own two feet and took care of us.
Every person from middle school and on up through adulthood in the US needs to hear this. Heartbroken by the autograts that have taken hold.
Thank you for this, Mr. Lopez. I needed some hope after the disastrous election in America, and you've given me that. Keep up the good work, Sir.
America you have to get this spirit, mindset, resilience, passion and fighting attitude, you are in the majority in the fight for Freedom and Rights ❤
Amen
One way to fight is to stop unnecessary consumerism because it is how the top 10% has more wealth. As well as the huge tax cuts they've been given since the 1980's.
People only need to buy absolute necessities and buy second hand while they have a choice.
@@ginalipkin4849 that's what america did.
@@ofirargyou keep saying this, but the point is not that trump was not elected democratically (because he was). The point is that trump is an autocrar not a democratic minded person. America failed to recognize that, or failed to recognize that this fact was the most important in the election.
@corpusalienum2665 I understand your point. It's simply wrong and based on zero empirical evidence.
He is so right!! I wish Americans had listened to this man. It is not about left or right, it’s about democracy or autocracy
And democracy won
@ofirarg lmfao
It's had 59k views, Noone saw this. Sad
@@ofirargYou misspelled "uneducated fascists"
Yep most of us were 🚨🚨🚨🚨
We are going to definitely learn a thing or two from this, considering the position the United States is now in. But those of us that love democracy are not going down a without a fight.
We are currently watching the Dems go down without a fight. This election was stolen! 45 always accuses others of EXACTLY what he is doing.
American here seeing the degradation of democracy across the world and the lack of care in America is tough
I'm taking Wednesdays off too start fighting the information war and spread their truth online. Going to create my own channel or something
People who fight for democracy are heroes.
As a Venezuelan and living back there in 2011-2013 when Chavez passed away; I cannot tell you how important it is for people to LISTEN to this!!
Thinking about Democracy as a global effort is thrilling. Maybe this will save it. We in the US just lost it.
Democracy won in the US this month
@@ofirargyes we still had an election. But trump has extremely autocratic tendencies ie suggesting running for a third term, silencing the people/news networks that disagree with him etc. He is not a sane person. And an egomaniac. Very dangerous cocktail for a leader. But I guess you’ll see for yourself, unless your algorithm is already super cooked.
@shaboodle he wasn't the one that used lawfair against his political oppnents and tried to criminalize "missinformation" to surpress other opinions and even to criminalize parodies.
@shaboodle there are no empirical ways to support the clame that he has autocratic personality.
@@ofirarg
Donald Trump’s tenure as president of the United States has been criticized by some as exhibiting autocratic tendencies. Here are some of the key points often cited:
1. Undermining Democratic Institutions
• Discrediting the Press: Frequently labeled the media as “fake news” and the “enemy of the people,” undermining trust in independent journalism.
• Judiciary Attacks: Criticized judges and court decisions that went against him, undermining confidence in the judiciary.
• Election Doubts: Repeatedly questioned the legitimacy of the electoral process, especially regarding mail-in voting and the 2020 election results.
2. Concentration of Power
• Executive Orders: Relied heavily on executive orders to bypass Congress, often circumventing the legislative process.
• Loyalty over Expertise: Prioritized personal loyalty over qualifications when selecting advisors and Cabinet members, frequently firing or sidelining those who disagreed with him.
3. Erosion of Accountability
• Avoiding Oversight: Ignored congressional subpoenas and blocked investigations into his administration.
• Pardoning Allies: Used presidential pardon power to benefit political allies and associates, sometimes in ways perceived as self-serving.
4. Normalization of Authoritarian Rhetoric
• Praise for Strongmen: Frequently praised autocratic leaders such as Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong-un, and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, often contrasting them favorably with democratic leaders.
• Dismissive of Allies: Criticized traditional democratic allies and international institutions like NATO.
5. Undermining Rule of Law
• Politicization of Justice: Pressured the Department of Justice to protect his interests and investigate opponents.
• Use of Government Resources for Personal Gain: Allegedly leveraged government resources, such as withholding aid to Ukraine, for personal political advantage.
6. Attempts to Stay in Power
• Refusal to Commit to Peaceful Transfer of Power: Avoided unequivocal commitments to respecting election outcomes during his presidency.
• January 6th Insurrection: Encouraged supporters to challenge the certification of the 2020 election results, culminating in the Capitol riot.
7. Manipulating Public Perception
• Cult of Personality: Fostered a highly personalized political movement centered on his identity, often discouraging dissent or criticism within his base.
• Polarizing Tactics: Employed divisive rhetoric to consolidate power by deepening societal divisions.
8. Weakening of Checks and Balances
• Sidestepping Congress: Attempted to use emergency declarations to fund policies like the border wall after Congress denied funding.
• Attacks on Independent Agencies: Targeted independent agencies and watchdogs, firing inspectors general who investigated misconduct within his administration.
These tendencies are often cited in academic and political discussions about the erosion of democratic norms under his leadership. However, assessments vary, with supporters arguing that many actions were within the scope of presidential authority or a response to unprecedented opposition.
Thank you for being our voice, long live free Venezuela.
This talk came at the perfect time. From my experience, not only is authoritarianism on the rise these days, I'm seeing more and more people in the freedom movements I'm in start to reject democracy and it's been a demoralising experience. Now we need people like you more than ever. Thank you Leopoldo! Sincerely, a young woman from Hong Kong
This man is a hero for my country
Excellent and inspiring speech, dear Leopoldo. From Ciudad Guayana, Venezuela, I wish you the best acting as General Secretary in the World Liberty Council @worldlibertycongress on behalf of the global pupulation living under autocratic regimes such as the hegemonic authoritarianism in Venezuela ¡Fuerza y fe!
Amazing man to survive all the injustice and suffering to be speaking to us today🙏❤️
We don't value our freedom until it is taken from us. US has a lot to learn based on the results of these last elections. We are about to get into a bumpy ride on the next 4 years with so much uncertainty and fear because that's what autocrats are all about. Thank you for formulating the results of such an autocratic system and what it actually means for the people rights and freedom.
❤. An amazing inspiration. It’s easy in this country to toss away democracy when you haven’t had to struggle for it or don’t see its value…
Well done Mr. Lopez! Educational inspirational and precisely what we need to do.
Thank you! Americans need to hear this!
Most important lesson, it’s a very necessary to everybody see this.
Inspiring us to start out fight in Africans countries. To change that system, because we are living inside the jail, even known that we are in our country.
Stop autocratic, and long live for democracy.
This is probably the most important thing for humanity looking forward. And it goes hand in hand with the fight to overcome the poison of nihilism, which began in the mid 1800s.
Where do we go - this is everything now - a way forward together. Please keep the voice strong.
America … Do Not Despair … We Will Be Free …
Es admirable tu valentía, te admiro, confío en tí como líder no dejaremos la lucha por nuestra democracia, espero que a través de tus palabras puedan escuchar el clamor que estamos pasando los Venezolanos aquí y en el mundo entero. ¡Vamos que viva la democracia! 🇻🇪 💪🧡
Sad state of affairs to have this topic be a TED talk! Where were you in 2016!
Also, a lot of the people that sponsor the Ted talks are behind the move toward autocracy i.e the tech bros like Musk, Zuckerberg and Bezos!
Wonderful speech, and so appropriate for our times! It looks like our country just voted for Autocracy instead of Democracy, which is quite sad. 😪
disinformation and misinformation is powerful... I have seen my friends share it. please continue to reach out to your neighbors to save our country.
Post 2024 election...we need to know these things.
Democracy is fragile, never take it for granted. DEMOS is Greek for The People. If the ultimate power resides in the people, you have a democracy
Add USA to the list
You give me hope! Thank you! God bless you!
He is so good looking! Incredible what he went through. Peple often take their freedoms for granted until they don't have them anymore.
Great job Leopoldo!!!… what a great initiative it is to get all freedom fighters together to face off a network of autocrats that are being very successful at taking over the world… thank you and thanks to the whole alliance of freedom and democracy fighters for opening our eyes…
This reminds me of the biblical tower of Babel story, where there's an emphasis on "one" language and people. Empires are often created by the destruction of cultures, one over another, and it reminds me of autocracy. May we work towards equality and freedom for our all fellow human brothers and sisters.
It’s too soon for anything like this. The threat of autocracy is not a joke.
I support to Leopoldo in his fight for the democracy
Bravo Leopoldo! Lider eres nuestra voz en el mundo, que nuestra lucha por la libertad y la democracia, sea visible en cada rincón del mundo. Basta de normalizar una brutal dictadura . como país este año marcamos un récord de organización democrática en las elecciones del 28 de julio. Confio en que pronto seremos libres para reconstruir la mejor Venezuela. Que viva Venezuela 🇻🇪 libre! Si se puede carajo! Dios con nosotros 🙏
In a democracy the rule of law applies to everyone equally. Freedom doesn't exist where Oppression exists. Use your voice. Call and/or email your elected Representatives. Tell them your opinion, tell them facts, they don't know if you don't tell them. 🤗🗽⚖️
Greed requires regulations. 💙
100!
Tenemos que apoyar la democracia y todos los movimientos de libertad. Venezuela lo necesita. El mundo debe leer y escuchar estás palabras de Leopoldo y ayudar a Venezuela. 🆘 🆘... Necesitamos empatía y solidaridad para la libertad y la democracia.
Unfortunately It takes a struggle against autocracy for people to take democracy seriously. Are you listening America?
Thanks Leopoldo !😊
We are all with the world freedom fighters.
I hope that my hoverment which is now going to have a pre-time election will listen to him too. We will loose all democratic successes
With conern and love from Germany 🇩🇪
He is sooo right! We have taken our freedom for granted. So complacent we can't seem to see our freedoms are being taken one day at a time!
I love this man!
What an incredible person! I have goosebumps, many words hit the nail on the head🔥
It feels like we're already too late here in the US after the election results.
it’s never too late to organize, stick together and plan how to resist anything and anyone. why do you think trumokin has divided and separated people? if we all stuck together he wouldn’t have a chance
@@Nancyr-x8ostick together and not let corporate billionaires take over our government. BOTH DEMOCRAT AND REPUBLICAN PARTIES DID THIS
Inspirational. But I truly hope this isn't one of those Venezuelans that voted for Trump. Being of Cuban descent, I can't believe how many ignorant Cubans voted for Trump, all because of either being somehow relevant to Florida, or because we've always voted (usually) Republican but this time they just don't see how he's the closest thing we've ever seen in this country to a dictator or an autocrat- whilst also externally and blatantly corrupt and fascist. What a confused bunch of groups there are out there, and all voting for OUR way of life, at that!
It's the corporate oligarchs, Clinton, Biden, musk, Trump, etc. with the help of ultra capitalist mainstream media, they are throwing all the regular citizens under the bus.
And brought us to the brink of world war III
As a venezuelan, this is about to be a very divided comment section. Some people think of him as a hero because he went to prison and was persecuted politically only due to being the opposition of Chavez and Maduro's regime. Other people think he arranged and made deals with the venezuelan government to turn himself in and make a whole spectacle about it and then later moved to Madrid, Spain where he now lives in a luxurious neighborhood. I don't think anybody but him knows the truth because whatever he chose to do, I think if even in the beginning, was well intended and he wanted to save our country but Venezuela's worst and greatest thing is their own people. People cared more about making memes about this man and how ripped he was getting in jail than fighting for truth, democracy and justice. In a country that is so obsessed with beautiful women, miss universe, long weekends, hanging out, beer and beaches, and any political victory at all that is achieved is quickly allowed to be stolen what is one man supposed to do? How is one man (with a family of his own) supposed to sacrifice his whole life for a country with people that protest for a week and then everything goes back to normal. If you're not actively fighting to save the country yourself, you should probably hold out on any judgments of this man. I believe that he thought that the country would back him and we didn't. Venezuela is lost and will never be what it once was and it is not this man's fault.
The thing is that he wasn't just "one man", he and his placeholder (Guaidó) had all possible support from other governments and the majority of Venezuelans. But as usual, the venezuelan opposition failed the people and made sure that the tyranny remains in power. They betrayed us, time and time again, and you expect us to spill our blood for them after they all end up in the same place? He turned himself in, he negotiated his freedom, he left Venezuela.
Same as Navalny in russia - he funded his pres electoral campaign, his own anti-corruption fund and sent his daughter to study in uni in
San Francisco - all on money that he claimed he received from usual people's donations and "interested private companies" that he never disclosed.
There should be no such thing as "peaceful protest" against autocracy in countries with no opposition - only coup.
Así es. el solo fue una víctima más y listo. Todos hemos intentado hacer algo por el país y hasta ahora nadie ha podido contra el poder político (alto mando militar)
Clavado. La mayoría de argentinos somos similares. Aún tenemos la gracia de poder utilizar las urnas cuando queremos decir algo más que sólo quejarnos mientras tomamos un matecito sentados cómodos frente a la TV; pero aún así no es suficiente, a veces, porque requiere mucho más que lo simplemente establecido.... debe ser un movimiento continuo, que no pare, que no se enfríe, que se traspase la voz entre generaciones. Y que la historia no se olvide. Empieza por uno mismo, debe haber un ruido interno que nos lleve a buscar algo que nos supera llevar adelante pero que no es posible siquiera si un solo eslabón se pierde. Pensé que su charla iba a ser estrictamente política pero llegué apreciar su belleza; y que incluso en prisión se puede salvar una vida :)
It's so similar with us. I am from Russia, and we had an opposition Aleksey Navalniy. When he was free, there were a lot of people saying that he made a deal with government to do this and to do that and so on. But then he was poisoned, survived, then arrested and finally killed in prison. Now nobody say that he made any deal with government, but we lost him forever. People are stupid or spoiled so much, that they can't think that there are people, who really care about someone except themselves.
Democracy is the voice of the many and autocracy is the voice of the few. If people can unite globally the voice of democracy will drown the voice of autocracy.
@@Ben738-p4t autocracy is not a voice of no one, but those dictators who control those countries
Exactly! 💯
The problem is how to bring them together.
Everyone is afraid to take the first step.
Look what happened to Navalni, for example. RIP 🙏
Unfortunately unless something happens, it looks like democracy is being brought down everywhere. We're failing and every year democracy scores fall worldwide bringing world more and more authoritarian.
The only way to save it is by creating something stronger, something that can overcome our divide, something that can unite us.
But currently AI algorithms on social media divide us and make truth and fact irrelevant. Dictators use that for their own benefit.
In other words we're still falling and it's far from hitting rock bottom. Fighting for freedom is getting more and more important every day.
Thank you mister Lopez for your story of intelligence hope and inspiration. ❤
When a TED brings this subject, yes correct, we are in deep trouble.
Very Moving, Thank You 🎉❤
My version of MAGA... Make Autocrascy Go Away
that’s great, i hadn’t heard that one 🦋👋👍🏼
Leopoldo, te admiro, cuando cada uno de nosotros pone su granito de arena, se hace posible la unión, lo vamos a lograr!!!
Protest marches work.
But they have to be relentless.
This man and his talk gives me hope.
One thing I am having trouble understanding is: in an autocratic country, how do the autocrats maintain their wealth when the people are living in poverty?
Same way they did in the Middle Ages.
@ Care to expand on your comment?
@@Michele-z4k 1. Wealth from land ownership = levying taxes rents (limited land ownership for anyone in middle / lower class). Vassals pledged loyalty in exchange for land (effectively creating a pyramid scheme). 2. Merchants could create personal wealth but opportunities were limited - it was necessary to sign up for apprenticeships/ indentured servitude to learn a trade. Opportunities to start new businesses were limited and dependent on approval of the local lord (autocrat).
@ I always thought there was no middle class in medieval times. I thought it was just the rich and the poor.
@ pretty much. One could argue that the merchants formed a bit of a middle class. Not wealthy but in some cases, not poor either.
Gracias líder por el trabajo arduo en favor de la democracia.
Es necesario tomar la ofensiva y dejar de legitimar los autocratas.
Seguimos creyendo que la mejor Venezuela es posible y que pronto volveremos a casa para juntos construirla.
Necesitamos tener confianza, siento que lo más difícil lo hicimos y confío en que TODOS a nivel internacional nos van ayudar y lo vamos a lograr, Libertad y Democracia yo creo en la mejor Venezuela Leopoldo siempre nos dijo visualizala y se que ya viene💪🏼🧡🇻🇪
Vivir en democracia con libertad y respeto a los derechos humanos de los ciudadanos sin ningún tipo de discriminación es un deber de todos los países civilizados.
Que nada nos detenga, confiamos en la mejor Venezuela, pronto la tendremos, adelante Leopoldo, seguimos en pie de lucha
Beautiful story about the hawk.
Apparently, the very next day after this TED talk, millions of Americans voted for autocracy, oligarchy and authoritarianism instead. 🙄
We’re F****D.
Yes but we could have voted for other options. Dr Jill Stein and Dr West were much better candidates. RFK Jr had a great campaign that was sabotaged by the corporate dem elites. Believe it or not, BILL CLINTON would rather have Donald Trump in office then a Bernie Sanders or Nina Turner. Just the cold hard facts. The super rich are the kings and queens of our country. They play by different rules
What an incredible person.❤
Pronto estaras dando un discurso como este aquí en Venezuela.. ❤ Venezuela Libre.
Es muy clara la enseñanza viva la democracia y libertad
Al principio no creía mucho en su ideología hoy en día
La defiendo por qué es la verdad
Mi admiración y respeto
Sigue con esta lucha gracias por nunca abandonarla 🙏🏻
Beautiful, thank you so much for your courage to fight for the protection of Democracy around the globe!!! I would love to know more about what I can personally do as a US citizen to protect democracy and freedom 💙
Palabras de un líder grandioso, así como cada uno de los que estamos en Venezuela y gritamos libertad y justicia, Mucha ha sido la lucha del hombre por su libertad y dignidad. No cierren sus oídos a la súplica 🆘🆘🆘⛑️⛑️⛑️ ayuda.
Hoy nosotros, pero no en vano muchos países han necesitado el apoyo del mundo para consolidar sus sueños. Venezuela voto por amor y para ser libre. Libertad para Venezuela 🇻🇪
Autocrats work together? Yes they do. But it's a temporary and a brittle alliance of convenience. The moment they get an opportunity they try to overtake each other or at least take advantage of each other.
It reminds me of gaming strategy, teaming up then turning on one another. Hunger Games?
Nancyr as my ex husband said, only 15% of people in the world are white and if the other 85% realized that, that 15% wouldn’t stand a chance. i’m white but im a hater of racism and a defender of other colors and marginalized people. i’m a kids nurse and my dad lived through naziism and he told me all about it.
5:02 Unfortunately, as of January 20, 2025 will need to add the population of the USA to that total living under autocracy.
Never to late!!! Never lose your voice!! Never stop fighting for your rights and democracy!?
Thank you.
I came from Cuba in 1966. It was pretty terrible. I'm grateful my parents got us out!
Bravo Leopoldo! Ese es mi líder! Sigo confiando en La Mejor Venezuela. Sé que pronto estarás en nuestro país dando un discurso como este. Vamos a recuperar la democracia.
Excelente Hermano… Fuerza y Fe…
his mentioning of the berlin wall got me looking up his age, he's 53 years old, born in 1971, still in such a good shape and so well spoken
53 IS young 🙂
Our new hospital only has Unisex restrooms. They have one toilet and sink and a locking door.
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU
Gracias líder por tu entrega y trabajo
Why only 59,000 views and only 313 comments on this important TEDtalk?! If some singer or athlete broke up with their partner, the post would “go viral”- 🤦🏻♀️
And, hence, you’ve described the problem!
Thank you, for this!
Bravo 👏🏼
Autocracies is a great risk for freedom in the world. Thanks lesder Leopoldo for warning the world of this danger.
Venezuela, América, El Caribe, España, la Unión Europea, África LIBRE/ 4 Pilares: Amor, Libertad, Armonía y Paz
Incredible
Bravo Leopoldo sigo confiando en la mejor Venezuela, se que pronto estarás en nuestro país dando un discurso como ese, será necesario cuando recuperemos la Democracia 🙏
"Tiene que haber un apoyo a favor de la democracia y los movimientos de libertad "
Ojalá escuchen las palabras de Leopoldo y ayuden a Venezuela.
Thank you, thank you for this. If you say that the autocrats are working together, people dismiss you as a conspiracist. If more people can say this out loud we can find each other and work together. Thank you for giving us the permission structure to speak up
Thank you for this highly motivating talk.
Pro democracy media: Meidas Touch Network, Brian Tyler Cohen, Tennessee Brando, Misstrial… United We Stand
This was amazing!! Powerful and inspiring! Eye-opening as well.
Thank u
one of the most best speaker, thank's ted
El mundo entero debería escuchar estas clarificadoras palabras del Leopoldo López, acerca de Venezuela. Queremos una Venezuela Libre.