What happens when a regime figures out how to Photoshop its tyranny into “democracy”? When the dictator swaps the military jacket for a tailored suit and starts quoting human rights conventions between propaganda speeches?

Throughout history, hundreds of regimes have employed Titushky-like tactics. There is no denying their effectiveness; however, they also come with a huge risk. By openly failing to protect citizens, the state’s monopoly on violence slips and along with it, its legitimacy.