Recent years have seen the rise of new forms of populist nationalism, posing a significant threat to the liberal international order established post-1945. While liberal democracy has historically faced challenges from authoritarian regimes, the current threat stems from established democracies succumbing to illiberal political forces driven by populist sentiments. However, the term “populism” encompasses a range of phenomena, requiring a nuanced understanding to delineate its boundaries.
Defining Populism: Characteristics and Variations
Though political scientists lack a firm consensus on its definition, populism typically exhibits three key characteristics. Firstly, populist regimes often pursue short-term policies popular among the masses but unsustainable in the long run, particularly in social policy domains such as price subsidies or pension benefits. Secondly, these regimes define the “people” constituting their legitimacy in exclusionary terms, based on ethnicity or race, rather than encompassing the entire population. Lastly, populist leaders cultivate a cult of personality, seeking direct, unmediated connections with the populace while denouncing existing elites and institutions.
The Threat to Liberal Institutions
The personalistic leadership style of populism poses a direct challenge to liberal democratic institutions, which are built upon power-sharing mechanisms designed to check executive authority. These institutions, including courts, legislatures, and the media, become targets of populist attacks, undermining their ability to serve as checks on executive power. Thus, populism emerges as a significant threat to the foundational principles of liberal democracy.
Distinguishing Between Movements
Divergent manifestations of populism across different regions and contexts necessitate distinguishing between various movements labeled as populist. Latin American and Southern European populists often emphasize left-leaning economic programs, aimed at addressing economic inequality through redistributionist policies. In contrast, Northern European and American populists appeal to right-wing sentiments, particularly anti-immigrant rhetoric, and cultural fears.
Drivers of Populist Nationalism
The rise of populist nationalism is fueled by economic, political, and cultural factors. Economic grievances, including job displacement due to globalization and technological change, contribute to a sense of disenfranchisement among middle and working-class populations. Political paralysis within liberal democracies, exacerbated by polarization and gridlock, creates fertile ground for populist leaders promising decisive action. Additionally, cultural anxieties surrounding identity, language, and tradition drive populist narratives, particularly concerning immigration and national sovereignty.
The Future of Populism
The trajectory of populist nationalism hinges significantly on developments within the United States, a key player in the liberal international order. While institutional checks have thus far mitigated the impact of populism in the U.S., economic growth and political factors may bolster populist leaders’ influence. Internationally, populist movements continue to gain traction, particularly in Eastern Europe and Brazil, posing challenges to established democratic norms and institutions. the rise of populist nationalism reflects a complex interplay of economic, political, and cultural dynamics, challenging the foundations of liberal democracy worldwide. Understanding the nuances of populism and its varied manifestations is essential for addressing its underlying drivers and mitigating its adverse effects on democratic governance and global stability.
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