In the article, Jan Zielonka discusses the increasingly popular political rhetoric concerning 'agency,' which is often used to justify actions taken by governments claiming to fulfill the will of the people. He raises concerns about the methods employed to achieve this agency, questioning whether it leads to democratic dialogue and the rule of law or devolves into authoritarian decrees that disregard criticism and utilize force against opposition. The notion of agency thus becomes a double-edged sword, offering politicians the cover they need to bypass established legal frameworks meant to check their power.

Zielonka observes that the drive for agency at all costs transcends local variations and appears as a global phenomenon. He cites examples from various countries where leaders reject international constraints, claiming they impede effective governance. This trend is particularly troubling as it often results in attacks on judges, journalists, and NGOs, indicating a broader attack on democratic norms and institutions meant to serve as boundaries on governmental power. The current political climate exemplifies this disconcerting shift towards prioritizing perceived effectiveness over adherence to legal and moral frameworks.

The implications of this trend are profound and worrying for the future of democracies worldwide. As leaders embrace the rhetoric of agency without the necessary checks and balances, the potential for authoritarianism grows. Zielonka's analysis serves as a cautionary reminder of the importance of maintaining democratic principles and the rule of law, emphasizing that a government claiming to act in the name of the people must also respect the rights and voices of those very individuals it purports to represent. Without this balance, the promise of agency can quickly transform into a tool of oppression.