"Criminalizing dissent" in authoritarian regimes refers to legal measures that suppress opposition and stifle free speech. This practice entails outlawing protests, restricting media freedoms, and punishing individuals who voice dissenting opinions. It creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, discouraging individuals from expressing their beliefs or challenging the regime's policies. This lack of freedom can lead to a more controlled society where any form of dissent is met with severe consequences. Ultimately, criminalizing dissent undermines the principles of democracy and human rights, solidifying the authoritarian grip on power.