Populism in itself is not an ideology, but rather a way of thinking about or expressing political views and opinions. It has three core features:
· Anti-establishment
· Authoritarianism
· Nativism
It is said to be ‘a thin and dangerous political strategy to obtain and retain power’ (Tonge, Lestara-Banderia etal., 2018).
The prominence of leaders such as Donald Trump, Marine Le Pen, Norbet Hoffer and Nigel Farage within many democracies in Western Societies is believed to have disrupted the political status quo.
The influence and power that populist leaders and factions exert was exemplified in UKIP’s ability to force David Cameron’s hand in promising an EU referendum to the British electorate. Populism can be seen to be tied closely to the issues that the ‘Leave Campaign’ was built upon. The promotion of values and beliefs such as nativism, closed borders, nostalgia, whilst rejecting multiculturism, international co-operation, open borders and the free flow of people, ideas and resources. (Ingleheart and Norris, 2014).
The Leave Campaign focused heavily on the issue of immigration, those who felt ‘left behind’. Receiving its strongest support in the West Midlands (59.3%), and its lowest in Scotland (38%). Areas of economic disadvantage, low levels of education and where the population is heavily white. Communities where people are struggling to survive in a post-industrial economy.
‘Nations must find new ways to build peace together in the face of dangerous, rising populism and “selfish” nationalism’ (President Macron, 2018).
The spread of populist rhetoric is threatening democracy both throughout Europe and the United States. French President Macron made a remarkedly pointed speech last Sunday, warning of the rise in nationalism, as he addressed over 60 heads of states to mark the 100th anniversary of the First World War Armistice.
Macron declared himself as a patriot, clarifying the difference between patriotism and Nationalism. ‘Patriotism is the exact opposite of nationalism. Nationalism is a betrayal of patriotism’. A pointed remark towards President Trump who recently declared himself proud to be a nationalist.
President Macron encapsulated in his speech, what very many are fearing,
‘Old demons are resurfacing. History sometimes threatens to take its tragic course again and compromise our hope of peace. Let us vow to prioritise peace over everything’.