Exploring how Russia and Turkey have shaped the contestation of democracy across South-Eastern Europe and Eurasia over the past two decades, Sonja Katharina Schiffers examines the pivotal role of gatekeeper elites in Georgia and Bosnia, how their choices enable or resist authoritarian and illiberal external influence, and assesses the counterpressure exerted by the EU and US.

Drawing on nearly one hundred exclusive interviews, this book offers a detailed account of Russian and Turkish external influence and its consequences for democracy in Bosnia and Georgia since the early 2000s. Combining rigorous analysis with practical insights, this book delivers compelling policy recommendations for those committed to defending liberal democracies.