How to Survive Under an Authoritarian Regime: A Practical Guide for 2025

Jessica McBride

— 4 min read

Babe are you okay? You've barely touched your will to live.

Welcome to the second half of your life friends. We're freedom fighters now. If you're anything like me, you're well aware of what the recent changes in government in the most powerful country in the world represent. It's not good. And you should be concerned.

My entire life, I've been told I'm dramatic, neurotic, paranoid. This started as a child, where I felt the need to have a go bag packed. As an adult, I've been accused of expecting the worst.

I was. And for good reason. What we're entering into is not unheard of. We actually have a well established blue print thanks to Hitler and his rise to power. History is written by the victors, but we have the ability to add footnotes.

Your life is about to change. It makes me sick. I hate change. I want a simple life, where I stay home and pet my cats and yap on the internet. Instead, I'm going to focusing on what I can influence. Below, you're going to find a basic guide to surviving under an authoritarian regime. I'll also link some reading, and recommendations.

Secure Your Digital Presence

  • Limit Online Information: Minimize personal information on social media. Delete old posts or accounts that may contain sensitive information or opinions.
  • Use Encrypted Communication: For private discussions, switch to encrypted apps like Signal. Avoid discussing sensitive topics over phone or email, which can be monitored.
  • VPN and Anonymity: Consider using a VPN to mask your IP address and maintain anonymity online. This will help you avoid being tracked or flagged for your activities.
  • Digital Clean-Up: Delete files, photos, or communications that could be seen as dissenting. Keep only the essentials to avoid suspicion.

Cultivate a Neutral Public Persona

  • Avoid Controversial Topics: Avoid discussing political or social views in public spaces. Be cautious in casual conversations, even with friends or family, to avoid drawing attention.
  • Blend In: Avoid using symbols, clothing, or accessories that indicate dissent. Dressing conservatively and fitting in with societal norms can help you avoid unnecessary scrutiny. I'm looking at you, Blue Bracelets.
  • Practice Caution in Professional Environments: If your workplace encourages loyalty or participation in regime-friendly programs, consider passive participation while avoiding unnecessary engagement.

Build a Trusted Network for Support

  • Identify Trusted Allies: Find a small circle of people who share your concerns and values. This group can provide emotional support, share information, and help in times of need.
  • Establish Emergency Contacts: Ensure a few close friends or family members know your whereabouts and can check on you. They should also know your safe places and any emergency plans.
  • Discreet Communication: Set up code words or signals with trusted people to indicate when you need help or when it's safe to talk openly.

Gather Essential Supplies and Documents

  • Prepare a Go-Bag: Have an emergency bag ready with essentials like water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, cash, a phone charger, and copies of important documents.
  • Secure Your Documents: Keep critical documents (ID, passport, birth certificates) in a secure, accessible place. Consider keeping digital copies on an encrypted USB drive.
  • Stock Up on Essentials: Gradually accumulate supplies like medications, hygiene products, and basic medical items. This avoids panic buying and reduces suspicion.
  • Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with basic rights under the regime. Understand what authorities can and cannot legally ask of you, even if those rights are often disregarded.
  • Learn Basic First Aid and Self-Defense: These skills may become invaluable for yourself or others in emergencies. Many community centers offer classes, or you can find resources online.
  • Practice Situational Awareness: Be observant in public spaces, understanding exits, observing others’ behavior, and paying attention to any law enforcement presence.

Maintain Resilience and Inner Strength

  • Focus on Mental Health: Authoritarian regimes often try to instill fear and compliance. Practicing mindfulness, staying connected with loved ones, and engaging in self-care can help maintain resilience.
  • Prepare for Long-Term Challenges: Accept that living under such a regime may require long-term strategies. Stay grounded and keep a quiet hope for eventual change.
  • Stay Informed and Think Critically: Even if public media is controlled, find ways to cross-reference news and stay aware of the reality around you. Use discreet channels to stay updated when possible.

Quietly Support Resistance Efforts

  • Amplify Others’ Voices Discreetly: Support organizations or individuals pushing for justice by donating anonymously, boosting secure online platforms, or volunteering in non-visible ways.
  • Use Subtle Signs of Solidarity: Small acts like supporting a marginalized friend, contributing to mutual aid, or showing quiet kindness to those targeted can keep spirits strong without drawing attention.
  • Practice Passive Resistance: Engage in small acts of non-compliance where possible. This can include slow work, small acts of sabotage (if safe), or simply maintaining your integrity and humanity under duress.

Reading List

"Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Worlds" by adrienne maree brown

"Street Rebellion" Resistance Beyond Violence and Nonviolence by Benjamin S. Case

Practicing New Worlds: Abolition and Emergent Strategies by Andrea J. Ritchie (Author); Alexis Pauline Gumbs (Foreword); adrienne maree brown (Introduction)

Resistance by Barry Lopez

We Refuse: A Forceful History of Black Resistance by Kellie Carter Jackson

How Democracies Die by Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt

Ask yourself:

What skills, perspectives, or strengths do you already have that could contribute to a resistance movement? How could you use these talents in a way that aligns with your values?

Imagine a situation in which your personal safety or values are compromised. How would you navigate the balance between self-preservation and standing up for others? What actions could you take that make an impact without putting yourself at risk?

Consider the role of community in resistance. Who in your life would you want to rely on in times of crisis, and how could you strengthen those relationships now? What could you offer to others in return?

Read more