The situation you describe is complex and can have various underlying factors. It is essential to recognize that every country and its people are unique, so the reasons why people may not fight back against dictators can differ from one nation to another. Here are some possible reasons:
Fear and Intimidation: Dictators often maintain power through fear and repression. They control the military, security forces, and secret police, which can employ brutal tactics to suppress any dissent. People may fear for their lives, the safety of their families, or the consequences of challenging the regime.
Lack of Unity: Opposition to a dictator may not be unified or organized. There might be various factions with different ideologies or motivations, which can make it challenging to mount a cohesive resistance.
Propaganda and Control of Information: Dictators frequently control the media and propaganda machinery. They disseminate information that portrays themselves as protectors of the nation or as the only viable option for stability. People may be subjected to constant misinformation, making it difficult to see alternative viewpoints or understand the full extent of the regime's brutality.
Limited Access to Information: In some cases, citizens might not have access to independent sources of information due to censorship or limited internet access. This lack of information can hinder awareness of the true extent of the dictatorship's actions.
Economic Dependency: People might be economically dependent on the regime. The government might control job opportunities, resources, or aid distribution, making it hard for individuals to survive or thrive without compliance.
Cultural and Historical Factors: Cultural norms and historical experiences can influence how people respond to authoritarian rule. Some societies may have a tradition of respecting authority figures or may have a history of previous violent uprisings that resulted in negative consequences, leading to reluctance to take further action.
External Support: Dictators can receive support from other countries, either for geopolitical reasons or economic interests. This backing can bolster the regime and make it difficult for domestic resistance to succeed.
Collective Apathy: Over time, people might become apathetic or resigned to the situation, feeling powerless to effect change or believing that resistance would be futile.
It is important to note that people's responses to dictatorship can evolve over time. Although there might not be immediate and visible resistance, underlying dissatisfaction can build up, and events can eventually lead to mass movements or uprisings. Throughout history, there have been numerous instances of populations successfully overthrowing dictatorial regimes, often through a combination of internal and external pressures.