Ep 33. 08/26/2018

Fareed Zakaria GPS Special is a weekly program that presents in-depth analysis and discussions on global issues with a focus on politics, economics, and foreign affairs. In episode 33 of the 2018 season, which aired on August 26th, 2018, Zakaria delves into the topic of populism and its impact on democracy around the world.

Zakaria starts the episode by examining the rise of populism in Western countries, particularly in Europe and the United States. He points out that the populist wave has its roots in the economic and social anxiety that many people feel due to globalization, technological changes, and immigration. He gives examples of populist leaders such as Donald Trump, Marine Le Pen, and Matteo Salvini, who have gained popularity by tapping into people's fears and frustrations.

Zakaria also discusses the challenges that populism poses to democracy. He argues that populists often target institutions such as the judiciary, the media, and the civil society, which are essential for a functioning democracy. He gives examples of how populist leaders have attempted to undermine or control these institutions in order to consolidate their power. Moreover, he notes that populism can lead to polarization and the erosion of democratic norms and values.

However, Zakaria also highlights that populism is not a homogeneous phenomenon and that different types of populism exist. He distinguishes between left-wing and right-wing populism, as well as between anti-establishment and anti-system populism. He explains that while all populists share a common rhetoric of popular sovereignty and anti-elitism, they may have different agendas and appeal to different constituencies.

To explore the global dimension of populism, Zakaria interviews several experts and politicians from different countries. He speaks with Turkish journalist Mustafa Akyol, who discusses the rise of Islamic populism in Turkey and the challenges it poses for secularism and democracy. He also interviews Indian politician Shashi Tharoor, who analyzes the role of populism in Indian politics and its impact on the country's democracy and diversity.

Zakaria also examines the case of Latin America, which has a long history of populist movements and leaders. He interviews former Brazilian president Fernando Henrique Cardoso, who reflects on the lessons that can be learned from Brazil's experience with populism. He also talks with Argentine political scientist Pilar Crespi, who explains the different types of populism that have emerged in Latin America and their impact on the region's democracies.

Throughout the episode, Zakaria provides historical and comparative perspectives on populism, drawing on examples from different periods and countries. He also emphasizes the need for democratic resilience in the face of populism, arguing that democracies need to protect their institutions and norms in order to withstand the populist challenge.

In conclusion, episode 33 of the 2018 season of Fareed Zakaria GPS Special provides a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of populism and its impact on democracy. Through interviews with experts and politicians from different regions, Zakaria sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of populism, while highlighting its dangers and challenges for democracy. The episode offers a timely and insightful contribution to the ongoing debate on the future of democracy in the age of populism.