Big Tech’s Seizure of State Power: The Authoritarian Stack Unveiled
The U.S. Army signed a significant defense contract with Palantir Technologies in July 2025. The deal, worth $10 billion, transferred control of key systems related to battlefield intelligence, logistics, homeland security, and immigration enforcement to Palantir. Although branded as an efficiency effort, critics point out it enables a private firm, led by billionaire Peter Thiel, to manage essential security functions.
Understanding the Authoritarian Stack
Francesca Bria, a distinguished researcher at University College London, is a key figure in examining the “Authoritarian Stack.” She highlights a new coalition of tech billionaires and ideological leaders forming under the Trump administration. This alliance has developed a governance framework that merges technology with authoritarian practices.
Shift from Public to Private Control
Unlike earlier military-industrial complexes, today’s structure emphasizes privatized control, affecting everything from cloud services to military drones. Notable individuals like Thiel, Elon Musk, and Marc Andreessen play pivotal roles in reshaping sovereignty to align with private interests. This emerging framework operates from within governmental systems, raising concerns about accountability and independence.
- Integration of Personnel: Leaders from Silicon Valley are enlisted in military roles, exemplified by initiatives like Detachment 201.
- Procurement Dynamics: Companies such as Palantir set standards that dictate government agency access to information.
- Surveillance Expansion: In April 2025, Palantir obtained a $30 million contract from ICE for a platform named ImmigrationOS.
Impact on European Sovereignty
The effects of the Authoritarian Stack extend into Europe and its governance structures, with various contracts linking European countries to American tech firms. Examples include:
- United Kingdom: Palantir secured a £330 million contract with the National Health Service for managing patient data.
- Germany: The company has aided law enforcement efforts while collaborating with Anduril on drone technology.
- Italy: Plans are in progress to integrate Elon Musk’s Starlink into military communications.
Such developments underscore that technology is not simply a tool but reflects a significant ideological shift. European nations now face the urgent task of establishing their technological sovereignty to retain independence from American influence.
Mapping an Authoritarian Future
The Authoritarian Stack initiative aims to clarify the mechanics of this evolving governance model. It includes:
- Investigative Read: A thorough examination of how tech moguls have gained unprecedented influence.
- Interactive Network Map: A visualization of the relationships among over 200 stakeholders, indicating capital flows and ideological ties.
- Policy Syllabus: A resource designed for journalists and policymakers to comprehend and counter the Authoritarian Stack.
The Stakes for Democracy
The consolidation of power through the Authoritarian Stack poses a significant threat to democratic governance. Infrastructure is crucial in shaping future political landscapes. Recognizing this trend as more than a mere technological change is essential; it signifies a profound reconfiguration of power.
Democratic institutions must respond proactively to reclaim technological roots. This involves creating public infrastructures that prioritize citizens over concentrated private interests. The stakes are high, making immediate action necessary to restore sovereignty amid growing digital dominance.
