Ep 4. Turning the Tide: Populism in Europe

Turning the Tide: Populism in Europe is the fourth episode of the 47th season of Great Decisions in Foreign Policy. In this episode, the rise of populism in Europe is explored and analyzed. Populism, a political ideology that puts the interests of the “common people” ahead of those of the elite, has gained ground in Europe in recent years.

The episode begins by providing an overview of what populism is and how it manifests itself in politics. It then delves into the reasons behind the rise of populism in Europe, including factors such as economic inequality, immigration, and the refugee crisis. The episode explores how these issues have been exploited by populist politicians and parties in Europe, from Hungary's Viktor Orbán to Italy's Matteo Salvini.

The episode then takes a closer look at some of the specific populist movements and parties that have emerged in Europe in recent years, such as the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and France's National Front. Experts weigh in on the impact that these parties have had on their respective countries and on Europe as a whole, as well as what their success or failure might mean for the future of European politics.

The episode also explores the challenges that populism poses to Europe's traditional parties and political institutions, such as the European Union. Experts discuss how the rise of populism has led to a political polarization in Europe and how traditional parties have struggled to respond to the challenge posed by populist parties.

Finally, the episode looks at some of the potential consequences of the rise of populism in Europe, both for Europe itself and for the rest of the world. Experts discuss how populism poses a threat to the liberal democratic order that has been established in Europe since the end of World War II and how it could lead to greater instability in the region.

Overall, Turning the Tide: Populism in Europe is a timely and thought-provoking exploration of one of the most important political phenomena of our time. It provides valuable insights into the causes and consequences of the rise of populism in Europe and offers a nuanced and balanced assessment of its impact on Europe's political landscape.