Populism

Populism refers to a range of political stances that emphasise the idea of "the people" and often juxtapose this group against "the elite". The term developed in the 19th century and has been applied to various politicians, parties, and movements since that time, although it has rarely been chosen as a self-description. Within political science and other social sciences, several different definitions of populism have been employed, with some scholars proposing that the term be rejected altogether.

Populists can be found at different locations along the left–right political spectrum, and there exist both left-wing populism and right-wing populism. This has become increasingly evident in the past decades, when several populist regimes started to rise in various regions of the world, such as the West and some parts of Asia.

Characterized by a suspicion and hostility toward elites, mainstream politics, and established institutions, it reflects rejection of the economic effects of globalization and frustration with the responses of political and economic elites to the public’s concerns. Both right-wing and left-wing populist parties have been rising across Europe — as leaders of countries such as France, Greece, and the Netherlands, for example, criticize established organizations for failing to protect the livelihood of European residents. South America has had its own waves of populism, as have the Philippines and Thailand.

Populist leaders and movements — whether on the right or left — may leverage democratic practices to foster popular support for consolidation of power in a strong executive and the slow, steady erosion of civil society, the rule of law, and norms of tolerance.