Ep 23. Dawn of a Dictator

Dawn of a Dictator is the 23rd episode of the fifth season of Vice, a documentary series that covers topics ranging from politics to crime, and social issues to international affairs. The episode focuses on the rise of authoritarianism and the erosion of democracy in different parts of the world.

The episode starts with a report on Venezuela, a country that has been in the grip of a political and economic crisis for years. The Vice team interviews opposition leaders, who accuse the government of political repression, corruption, and human rights violations. They also visit the slums of Caracas, where they see the harsh living conditions and the impact of the country's economic collapse on ordinary citizens. The report provides a snapshot of the challenges facing Venezuela's democracy, and the efforts of its citizens to resist authoritarianism.

The second part of the episode takes us to Turkey, a country that has seen a dramatic shift toward authoritarianism under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Vice team interviews Turkish academics, journalists, and activists who discuss the erosion of human rights, the crackdown on the independent press, and the persecution of Kurdish people. The report also examines the role of social media and technology in spreading disinformation and government propaganda.

In the third segment, the show explores the impact of China's growing authoritarianism on the rest of the world. The Vice team interviews Chinese dissidents and activists who have fled the country, and who describe the Chinese government's aggressive suppression of dissent and its growing influence on other countries through economic and political means. The report also examines China's use of technology and surveillance to monitor its citizens and to control information.

The final segment of the episode takes us to Brazil, a country that has been rocked by political scandal and corruption in recent years. The Vice team interviews protesters and political activists who have taken to the streets to demand accountability and transparency from the government. The report also examines the role of social media and populist movements in the rise of authoritarianism in Brazil and other countries.

Overall, Dawn of a Dictator is a thought-provoking and timely exploration of the erosion of democracy and the rise of authoritarianism in different parts of the world. Through its interviews with activists, academics, and citizens, the episode sheds light on the challenges facing democracy today, and the urgent need for people to stand up for their rights and freedoms. The episode is a testament to the power of journalism and activism, and a reminder that the struggle for democracy and human rights is ongoing and vital.