What techniques do dictatorships employ to maintain control over their people?

By highlighting their achievements, embellishing their qualities, and portraying them as indispensable leaders, dictators garner public support and loyalty. 4. Suppression of dissent: Propaganda helps dictators suppress dissent and maintain control over the population. Through a combination of fear, intimidation, and propaganda messages, they discourage opposition, silence critics, and create an environment where dissenting voices are ostracized. Propaganda often portrays resistance or dissent as unpatriotic or dangerous, provoking a sense of fear or division among the population.