This article challenges the notion that liberal autocrats minimize state violence against civilians.

Event-Level Analysis of Threat Perception

It argues elite fear autonomous, national-level social movement organizations more than public protests. These groups pose a threat by enabling citizen claim-making outside established networks.

Policy Implication: Dissuading Independent Mobilization

Liberal autocrats use targeted protest policing to maintain control and preserve their near monopoly over political expression, despite outward liberalization signals.

Case Study: Morocco

Unique event data from Morocco demonstrates how state violence selectively targets organizational forms. This reflects ongoing strategies in the country's liberalized context.

Implications for Regime Durability

Findings suggest persistent efforts by partially democratic regimes to manage contention, raising questions about long-term stability despite reforms.