Introduction
The previous decade till now, Europe has witnessed a significant political shift, like by the rise of populist movements and the decline of social democratic parties, which lead to rise of Populism in Europe. This is shown by numerous electoral outcomes and political developments. For example, the 2017 elections in France and the Netherlands demonstrated significant support for populist candidates, while in Hungary, the socialist party garnered only 12% of the vote in 2018, and Poland’s social-democratic Democratic Left Alliance is no longer represented in parliament.
By the 2019 elections, socialist parties lost 38 of 191 seats (Berman and Snegovaya, 2019, p. 5). This paper examines the underlying causes of these shifts, focusing on economic changes, social dynamics, and political strategies.
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Decline of Social Democracy and Rise of Populism in Europe
The decline of social democracy in Europe is closely tied to deep economic transformations over recent decades. The reduction in manufacturing jobs and the shrinking of the working class and unions—key supporters of leftist parties—have damaged their traditional voter (Berman and Snegovaya, 2019). During the 30 years following World War II, Western Europe experienced rapid economic growth and political stability, but the economic turmoil of the 1970s, characterized by high inflation and unemployment, forced social democrats to shift from being protectors against capitalism’s downsides to focusing on technocratic efficiency (Berman and Snegovaya, 2019, p. 7).
This change aligned the left’s leadership with highly educated elites, diverging from the traditional working-class base. The 2008 financial crisis further eroded public trust in neoliberalism and the elites supporting it (Berman and Snegovaya, 2019, p. 5).
Factors that Lead to Rise of Populism in Europe
Economic Factors – Rise of Populism in Europe
Economic inequality has played a critical role in the rise of populism in Europe. The financial crisis of 2008, which led to severe economic instability, provided ground for populist movements to gain power.
The crisis resulted in widespread economic hardship, decreasing material conditions for many and concentrating wealth in the hands of a few. According to the OECD (Organization of Economic Co-Operation and Development), this rise in inequality has been a significant cause for the rise of populism in Europe, as those economically marginalized sought alternatives to the established political order(Nat O’Connor, 2017, p. 32). For instance, in Greece, the populist party Syriza saw its vote share rise from 5% in 2008 to over 36.3% in 2015 (Nat O’Connor, 2017, p. 38).
Demographic Changes – Rise of Populism in Europe
Demographic changes and the rise of new values such as self-expression, environmentalism, and gender equality have created a divide within the left’s electorate. Traditional leftist voters often prioritize national identity, law and order, and economic growth, causing friction with those who hold these newer values (Berman & Snegovaya, 2019).
Immigration has also become a highly contentious issue. Populist parties have capitalized on fears regarding cultural identity and economic security, positioning themselves as defenders of European culture and values against immigrants (Akbaba, 2018). Europe has faced significant immigration flows since World War II, creating social and economic tensions (Massey, 1990, p. 61). Populist-nativist rhetoric blames immigrants for economic and social problems, creating a clear division between the native population and the perceived outsiders (Nat O’Connor, 2017, p. 40).
This strategy has been particularly effective in mobilizing support among voters who feel threatened by the changes brought about by globalization and immigration. Populist parties have effectively used media, especially social media, to engage with voters directly, bypassing traditional channels. Their messages, often simple and emotionally charged, resonate with people’s everyday experiences and grievances (Akbaba, 2018, p. 210).
Anti-Immigration Stance – Rise of Populism in Europe
They (Populists) have been successful in promoting the anti-immigration stance, in countries like the Netherlands, Finland, Italy, and Hungary, populist parties have framed immigrants as threats to national security and cultural integrity (Akbaba, 2018, p. 199). For instance, leaders such as Geert Wilders of the Netherlands’ Party for Freedom have used insulting terms for immigrants to blend public sentiment, calling them “scum” and portraying them as invaders (Akbaba, 2018, p. 199), in 2011 the mass killing of 69 people by Anders Bveivik in the camp, and latter saying that this was to save Norway from Muslim takeover, is also evidenced that how they hated the foreigners.
This stance link with significant portions of the electorate, particularly those who feel economically and culturally marginalized. They have successfully embedded themselves in mainstream politics by positioning themselves as defenders of national identity and economic security. Examples include Hungary’s Fidesz party under Viktor Orbán, which has merged nationalist and populist stance with strong anti-immigration stances (Akbaba, 2018, p. 204), and Italy’s Lega Nord, which has shifted from regional to national populism, leveraging economic dissatisfaction and anti-immigration sentiment.
In contrast, social democratic parties have struggled to modernize their communication strategies and address the evolving concerns of their electorate (Akbaba, 2018, p. 205). Also, it was due this problem that United Kingdom (Brexit) which was once a European member, now it is no more due the issue of Immigrants that the leader Boris Johson with public support left the boundaries of European Union (Grieco, et al., 2022, p. 141)
Populist Leaders Present Themselves as Charismatic Leaders
Populist leaders present themselves as charismatic outsiders challenging the status quo, which appeals to voters disappointed with established political elites. They have used slogans like “Europe for Europeans” to reinforce their anti-immigrant stance and gain support among those who feel left behind by globalization and European integration (Akbaba, 2018, p. 199). The effectiveness of their approach is further demonstrated by the increasing vote shares for populist parties and the declining support for social democrats across multiple European countries over the past two decades.
Populism thrives on the promise of returning power to the people. This involves emphasizing participation, decentralization, and community politics, as well as the empowerment of ordinary citizens. Populist leaders often use language that link with people’s everyday struggles and frustrations, positioning themselves as the true representatives of the people against a corrupt elite (Spruyt, Keppens and Van Droogenbroeck, 2016, p. 336). This approach is reviewed in slogans and narratives that simplify complex issues and provide clear, emotionally appealing solutions.
Integration of the European Union – Rise of Populism in Europe
The integration of the European Union has also contributed to the rise of populism in Europe by creating a perceived distance between the masses and the ruling elites. Decisions made at the European level are often seen as disconnected from the realities of ordinary citizens, leading to feelings of marginalization.
The Maastricht Treaty, which advanced European integration, also sparked significant populist reactions, particularly evident in the French and Danish referendums, critics argue that the European Community has distanced government from citizens, transforming what was once domestic legislation into decisions made through opaque and complex negotiations at the European level (Hertley, 2024, p. 40). This lack of transparency and the rushing of issues into “Brussels packages” make it difficult for the public and journalists to trace decision-making processes or hold officials accountable.
How Populist Parties are Effective?
The effectiveness of populist strategies is evident in their electoral successes and growing influence in European politics. For instance, populist parties have gained significant representation in the European Parliament and have been part of governing coalitions in several countries, including Greece, Italy, and Switzerland (Pintsch, Hammerschmidt and Meyer, 2022, p. 406). In Hungary, the Fidesz party has maintained a dominant position by continuously leveraging anti-immigrant ways and policies that appeal to nationalist sentiments (Akbaba, 2018, p. 210).
They have also demonstrated their ability to mobilize support through protests, social media campaigns, and grassroots organizing. They use emotionally charged language and symbols to create a sense of unity and purpose among their supporters. This approach has proven effective in avoiding traditional media channels and reaching directly into the everyday lives of voters.
Furthermore, the socioeconomic factors underpinning the rise of populism in Europe, such as economic inequality and unemployment, have been empirically validated. Studies have shown that regions experiencing higher levels of economic distress and inequality are more likely to support populist parties. This connection highlights the importance of addressing economic grievances to counter the appeal of populist stance.
Conclusion
The rise of populism in Europe and the decline of social democracy in Europe are the results of complex interactions between economic insecurity, demographic changes, and effective political strategies by populist parties. Social democrats have struggled to adapt to the changing political landscape, leading to their decline. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing the challenges facing European democracies.
It highlights the need for social democratic parties to reinvent themselves to better address contemporary issues and regain voter trust. In future strategies for social democrats to counter the populist surge, such as developing policies that address economic insecurities without resorting to protectionism, making compelling narratives that links with both traditional and new voter bases, and utilizing modern communication tools to enhance engagement with the electorate.
References:
Berman, S. and Snegovaya, M. (2019) ‘Populism and the Decline of Social Democracy’, Journal of Democracy, 30(3), pg. 5–19. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1353/jod.2019.0038.
Nat O’Connor (2017) ‘Three Connections between Rising Economic Inequality and the Rise of Populism’, Irish Studies in International Affairs, 28, pg. 29-43. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3318/isia.2017.28.5.
Akbaba, S. (2018) ‘Re-narrating Europe in the Face of Populism: An Analysis of the Anti-immigration Discourse of Populist Party Leaders’, Insight Turkey, 20(3), pg. 199–218. Available at: https://doi.org/10.25253/99.2018203.14.
Massey, D.S. (1990) ‘The Social and Economic Origins of Immigration’, The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, 510(1), pg. 60–72. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1177/0002716290510001005.
Grieco, J., Ikenberry, G. J. & Mastanduno, M., 2022. Why did the United Kingdom decide to Leave the European Union?. In: Introduction to International Relations. Great Britain: Bloomsbury Academic , pg. 595.
Spruyt, B., Keppens, G. and Van Droogenbroeck, F. (2016) ‘Who Supports Populism and What Attracts People to It?’, Political Research Quarterly, 69(2), pg. 335–346. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1177/1065912916639138.
Hartley, Anthony (2024) ‘Europe’s New Populism’ The National Interest, 30, pg. 37-40. Available at: https://www.jstor.org/stable/42896825.
Pintsch, A., Hammerschmidt, D. and Meyer, C. (2022) ‘Introduction: the decline of democracy and rise of populism in Europe and their effect on democracy promotion’, Cambridge Review of International Affairs, 35(4), pg. 405–423. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1080/09557571.2022.2082797.
FAQs
Why are so many people in Europe turning towards populist leaders instead of traditional political parties?
Over the past two decades, many Europeans have become frustrated with political elites who seem disconnected from everyday struggles. Populist leaders have capitalized on this frustration by presenting themselves as relatable outsiders who “speak the truth” and challenge the status quo. Their promises to “return power to the people” and focus on national identity often feel more emotionally compelling—especially in times of economic uncertainty—than the technocratic approaches of traditional social democratic parties. This has significantly fueled the rise of populism in Europe, particularly among those who feel left behind by globalization.
How has economic inequality contributed to the rise of populism in Europe?
Economic inequality has been a major driver behind the populist wave across Europe. The 2008 financial crisis hit working-class and middle-class families hard, while the wealthy often recovered quickly. Populist parties used this growing divide to criticize elites and promote anti-establishment rhetoric. As social democratic parties struggled to address these issues convincingly, populists stepped in, offering emotionally charged and simplified solutions that resonated with people who felt economically and socially abandoned.
Is immigration really the main reason for the rise of populism in Europe?
Immigration has played a key role in the rise of populism, but it’s not the only factor. Populist leaders often use immigration to stoke fear about job security, cultural identity, and national safety—especially in countries like Hungary, Italy, and the Netherlands. However, their success also stems from deeper issues like economic hardship, loss of trust in institutions, and changing societal values. What populists have done effectively is link immigration to broader narratives of decline, offering themselves as protectors of “real” citizens against perceived outsiders.
Why have social democratic parties struggled while populist parties are gaining ground in Europe?
Social democratic parties were once strong voices for the working class, but over the years, they’ve aligned more with educated elites and technocratic policies. This shift alienated many traditional supporters. Meanwhile, populist parties have filled this void by using relatable messaging and strong emotional appeals. They’ve leveraged social media and grassroots campaigns to speak directly to people’s daily struggles, accelerating the rise of populism in Europe while social democrats appeared outdated or disconnected.
What role has the European Union played in the rise of populist movements across Europe?
The EU, while aiming for unity and shared governance, has unintentionally created a sense of distance between citizens and decision-makers. Complex treaties, perceived lack of transparency, and centralized decision-making have fueled skepticism. Populist parties have seized on this, portraying the EU as a distant bureaucracy that ignores national interests. Events like Brexit reflect how this sentiment has empowered populist narratives and contributed to the broader rise of populism in Europe, particularly among those who feel their voices are no longer heard within the EU framework.
