Patterns of influence: intelligence liaison and authoritarian rule

This study investigates the underexplored dynamics and implications of the many U.S. intelligence partnerships with authoritarian regimes. Drawing on declassified U.S. Government records, we hypothesize that secret intelligence partnerships offer authoritarian rulers unique advantages that can strengthen their domestic positions. Secrecy allows leaders to build these relationships while avoiding public criticism, informality provides an opening for new demands for quids pro quo, and U.S. policymakers often turn a blind eye to rights and other abuses when strategic collection or covert operations are at stake. Intelligence training, funding, and technology provided to support joint intelligence operations also enhances rulers’ ability to target domestic threats. This article offers a foundation for future research into how the form of regime affects intelligence liaison dynamics and clandestine relationships’ impact on domestic governance.