Populism in the 21st Century: Causes and Consequences
In the early decades of the 21st century, populism has emerged as one of the defining political forces across continents. From the election of Donald Trump in the United States to the leadership of Viktor Orbán in Hungary, from Narendra Modi in India to movements such as Brexit in the United Kingdom, populist rhetoric and strategies have reshaped political landscapes. While populism is not new, its 21st-century resurgence reflects deep structural changes in economics, media, culture, and global governance. This blog explores what populism is, why it has gained strength in recent decades, and what consequences it carries for democratic systems and global stability. What Is Populism? At its core, populism is a political approach that frames society as divided between “the pure people” and “the corrupt elite.” Populist leaders present themselves as the authentic voice of the people, promising to restore power to ordinary citizens by challenging entrenched institutions—whethe...
