Autocratic governance refers to a system of government where all the power is concentrated in the hands of a single individual or a small group of people. Decisions and policies are made without input from the general population or other branches of government.
Related terms
Authoritarianism: A related term to autocratic governance, authoritarianism is characterized by strong central power, limited political freedoms, and strict obedience to authority.
Dictatorship: In a dictatorship, an autocrat holds absolute power over the state and its people without any checks or balances. Decisions are made unilaterally.
Totalitarianism: Similar to autocracy, totalitarianism refers to a form of government where the ruler has total control over every aspect of public and private life. The regime seeks complete dominance over society and suppresses opposition.