Populism and Contemporary Democracy in Europe: Old Problems and New Challenges

Populism has had a significant impact on European democracies, challenging the traditional notion of liberal democracy. This book explores the ways in which populists have attempted to change the "rules of the game" of democracy and the institutions that have been most affected. It also considers the responses of European States to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has accelerated trends such as the concentration of powers in the executive hands and the loss of parliament's centrality. The book argues that European democracies should adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic to respond to populist threats and propose a way forward for liberal democracy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 338 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The impact of populism on European democratic polity has been a subject of significant concern in recent years. This book offers a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon, exploring the various manifestations of populism across Europe and its effects on democratic institutions and processes.

Populism, as defined by the book, is a political ideology that asserts the superiority of the majority over the law, advocates for direct democracy over representation, and prioritizes the protection of national sovereignty against foreign interferences. This conception of democracy stands in stark contrast to the longstanding Western notion of liberal democracy, which emphasizes individual rights, the rule of law, and the separation of powers.

The book delves into the populist attempts to fundamentally alter the "rules of the game" of democracy, focusing on the institutions that have been most affected by the rise of populism. It examines the role of the media, the judiciary, and the political parties in responding to populist challenges and the strategies employed by these institutions to resist the populist tide. Special attention is given to the Venice Commissions opinions and documents, which serve as the best European standards for evaluating the extent to which populism deviates from constitutional democracy requirements.

The book also considers the responses of European States to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has served as an accelerator of known and studied trends in most constitutional systems. The pandemic has led to the concentration of powers in the executive hands, resulting in a loss of parliament's centrality. Various forms of populism across Europe have found an ideal breeding ground to implement their agenda of granting the executive broad regulatory and decision-making powers while loosening parliamentary and judicial checks.

Against this backdrop, the book analyzes how European democracies should adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic. It explores the need for democratic renewal, the importance of constitutional checks and balances, and the role of civil society in promoting democratic values and institutions. The book also suggests the importance of promoting education and awareness about the dangers of populism and the need for responsible and informed citizenship.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the study of populism and its impact on European democratic polity. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon, exploring the various manifestations of populism across Europe and its effects on democratic institutions and processes. The book's insights and recommendations will be of interest to scholars, policymakers, and citizens alike who are concerned about the future of democratic governance in Europe.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030928865
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022