PovGov Director Beatriz Magaloni is awarded the Boris Mints Institute (BMI) Prize for her groundbreaking research on autocratic regimes and their electoral processes and the resurgence of autocracy at a global scale.
Prof. Magaloni’s research addresses critical questions regarding why autocratic regimes opt for multi-party elections and the implications of these elections for democracy. She elucidates the nuanced threats posed by civilian leaders who ascend to power through electoral means rather than military coups, offering vital insights into electoral behavior and regime stability.
Previous BMI laureates include Robert Axelrod, Nobel Prize laureate Michael Kremer, and Jeffrey D. Sachs.
Here is Professor Magaloni's full statement:
Earlier this year, I was honored with the 2024 Boris Mints Institute Prize for my work on authoritarianism and its global resurgence. I deeply appreciate this recognition. Accepting the award amidst the ongoing Israel-Gaza war—a conflict that has caused unspeakable human suffering—brings profound moral dilemmas.
I unequivocally condemn the atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7 and the alarming global rise in antisemitism. I unequivocally condemn the Israeli government’s ongoing military actions that have caused unimaginable human suffering. The Netanyahu government’s refusal to uphold its obligations under international human rights law have deepened the crisis, making a peaceful resolution more distant. This war has disproportionately affected Palestinian civilians, claiming the lives of thousands. Netanyahu’s government actions have led to immense suffering for Palestinian families in Gaza who lack safe zones and Israeli hostages and their families.
Aligned with the fundamental values that underpin my academic commitment to generating research that contributes to restraining authoritarianism and violence and restoring peace, security, and the protection of human rights, I have decided to donate the $100,000 prize to humanitarian relief and peace-building initiatives in the region and my native Latin America. Given the volatile situation in Gaza, I am still exploring on-the-ground humanitarian initiatives to support those affected and working to stop the war and promote peace. I will update this information as I make the donations.
As someone committed to dialogue and coexistence, I oppose isolating academic institutions and instead advocate for engaging with Israelis and Palestinians striving for a just and peaceful future. However, the longer this war continues, the harder it becomes to envision a two-state solution where both peoples can live side by side in peace.
Receiving the BMI Prize in Montenegro, a state that recognizes Palestinian sovereignty, I renew my call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire. History reminds us of the devastating toll of indiscriminate warfare, from Guernica to My Lai. Today, we have a moral obligation to end the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and work toward a future rooted in justice, dignity, and peace for all. I strongly affirm the vital role of international law in upholding human dignity, even in war.
Beatriz Magaloni
Graham H. Stuart Professor of International Relations
Department of Political Science
FSI Senior Fellow
Director, Poverty Violence & Governance Lab
Stanford University
November 22, 2024
