Following the 2024 European Union elections, numerous headlines have highlighted the notable rise of ‘far-right’ parties across Europe, sparking concerns about a resurgence of fascism. Media frequently term the success of parties like France’s National Rally, Italy’s Brothers of Italy, and Hungary’s Fidesz as the rise of the ‘far right.’ This labeling has led to fears of an impending resurgence of fascism, fueling concerns about the potential impact on democratic values and EU unity.
However, is this the right diagnosis? Is there an alternative way to describe this ongoing shift, and how can the recent left-wing victories in countries like Ireland with Sinn Féin, Finland with The Left Alliance, and Greece with SYRIZA be interpreted? These left-wing parties, often with strong anti-establishment messaging, suggest a broader dissatisfaction with the political status quo across the spectrum, challenging the notion that the shift is exclusively toward far-right ideologies.
National Populism vs. Far-Right Movements
Populism expert Matt Goodwin argues that terms like ‘far right’ have become meaningless and overly broad. Instead, he prefers the term ‘national populism,’ which he defines as movements prioritizing the culture and interests of the majority against a perceived corrupt elite. Populism is a political approach that emphasizes a direct connection with the people and critiques the elite. Populists claim to represent the voice of the “ordinary” people against a corrupt or out-of-touch elite. This approach can be found across the political spectrum, from left to right.
The Impact of Mass Immigration and Other Factors
Since the early 2010s, particularly with the onset of the Syrian refugee crisis, Europe has experienced significant changes due to mass immigration. This influx has placed considerable strain on many European countries’ social services and infrastructure, leading to significant political and social challenges. The expansion of the EU, which increased intra-EU migration, and economic migrants from Africa and the Middle East seeking better opportunities in Europe, have further amplified public concerns about job competition and cultural integration.
These developments have fueled the rise of national populism across Europe, gaining significant traction among young Europeans. This movement is seen as a response to various concerns such as mass immigration, radical Islam, economic dissatisfaction, and the perceived disconnect of political elites. Populist sentiment extends beyond Europe, observable in the U.S. and Canada, where figures like Donald Trump and the People’s Party of Canada exhibit similar dynamics.
Goodwin’s Analysis
Goodwin distinguishes national populism from far-right movements by highlighting that national populists, while radical in challenging the status quo, do not aim for its complete overthrow. They advocate for a direct form of democracy, emphasizing the majority’s will over liberal democratic institutions. This contrasts with the tendency among liberal progressives to label any opposition, such as critiques of mass immigration, as ‘far right,’ which stifles debate.
Goodwin attributes the rise of national populism to a “4D model,” as detailed in his book National Populism: The Revolt Against Liberal Democracy, co-authored with Roger Eatwell:
Distrust: Growing mistrust in traditional political institutions and elites.
Destruction: Perceived threats to cultural and national identity due to immigration and globalization.
Deprivation: Economic and social inequalities, with many feeling left behind by globalization.
De-alignment: Weakening of traditional party loyalties and increasing support for non-traditional, populist parties.
These factors resonate with voters’ sense of loss and desire for change, driving support for national populist movements that promise to protect national sovereignty and address perceived injustices.
The Role of the Left
The rise of populism presents several dangers to democracy, including the potential for majoritarianism, oversimplification of complex issues, and instability in democratic institutions. While the media often place the blame on the right, the left’s insistence on an overtly elitist political posture significantly contributes to these dangers. This elitist stance often results in dismissing the concerns of ordinary citizens, focusing instead on academic or theoretical perspectives that can feel detached from everyday realities. Consequently, many people feel alienated and unheard, driving them toward populist movements that promise to prioritize their needs and voices. Unless the left changes this elitist approach and begins to genuinely address the concerns of the broader population, the shift towards right-wing populism is here to stay.
References
Goodwin, M., & Eatwell, R. (2018). National Populism: The Revolt Against Liberal Democracy. Pelican.
European Union Election Results. (2024). EU Observer.
Analysis of Mass Immigration Impact. (2023). Migration Policy Institute.
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