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Populism is a powerful and contentious force in contemporary politics. In its basic form, it is an appeal to "the people," generally positioned against elites and serving to channel frustration into political change. This idea is hardly new, with its first movements appearing in the 19th century, where a movement such as the People's Party in the U.S. fought for farmers and workers against industrial elites. Over time, populism has taken many forms, each tailored to different countries and situations.
Image: Nash Weerasekera/Foreign Policy
Today, populism exerts more influence than ever, and it has been used by different leaders to connect with their supporters, from Donald Trump to Narendra Modi, Jair Bolsonaro, and Marine Le Pen. What they all do: speak directly to people through social media, challenge the established powers, and more often than not, sell nationalism. Social media, on one hand, has made it easier to spread their messages across in no time, but it has also resulted in a spurt in misinformation and divisiveness.
Populism changes how policies are made. Populist leaders often focus on protecting local industries, taking tough stances on immigration, and favoring one-on-one deals with other countries instead of large global partnerships. While these policies may seem to put their nations first, they can also disrupt international cooperation.
Critics of populism say it can weaken democracy because it puts too much power into the hands of leaders while reducing checks and balances. Supporters believe that populism gives the voice of the ordinary person and challenges corrupt elites. This mix of risks and benefits makes populism a very complex and important force in politics.
Globally, populism is changing the balance of power. Countries like the U.S. and those in Europe are facing internal wars because of populist movements, as other countries such as China and Russia take advantage of the dividing nature of these movements. This obviously creates tension in a world currently battling big challenges like climate change and economic inequality.
In its essence, populism represents a general will for change and the dire need to take care of the real concerns of common people. While it is a challenge to democracy and global cooperation, it also points to the lacuna in the existing systems that must be addressed by leaders and institutions. Its impact on modern politics is profound and lasting, forcing societies to confront difficult questions about power, representation, and the balance between national interests and global responsibilities. Understanding populism is essential for navigating these challenges and shaping a more inclusive and resilient political future.
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