How can nonviolent action succeed against regimes that are willing and able to systematically kill the opposition? Dr. Consuelo Amat develops a new theory of nonviolent resistance in closed societies that focuses on power through autonomy. She argues that nonviolent movements in contexts of extreme repression can build their own power by focusing on the provision of goods and services. This strategy promotes autonomy—the ability to act freely—by programmatically implementing economic, social, and truth-and-justice programs at the local level, thereby reducing state control over citizens. In times of less extreme oppression, the opposition can use these sites of provision—and the cross-sectoral connections formed there—to achieve political gains through more confrontational tactics of mass protest as well as other available institutional mechanisms.
CeCoP and the Institute for Social Sciences cordially invite all interested parties to the event:
CeCoP Lecture “Studying Resistance in Latin America”
- June 8, 2026
- 4:00–6:00 p.m. c.t.
- Room 15/308
Amat’s book project is based on a careful examination of the resistance against the Pinochet dictatorship in Chile. She argues that nonviolent movements seeking to challenge and dismantle dictatorial regimes should focus on building parallel institutions that provide basic services. Providing such services not only undermines the state’s physical and material control over its citizens but also signals the opposition’s vision and capacity to govern. Amat’s lecture is part of public lectures organized by Dr. Finn Klebe in his seminar Strategies of (Non)-Violent Resistance.
