The Populism-Euroscepticism Nexus: A Discursive Comparative Analysis of Germany and Spain

This book explores how radical parties in Europe articulate populist discourses to contest the EU, examining the case of Podemos in Spain and the AfD in Germany. It argues that populism is only one possible discursive articulation of Euroscepticism and that radical parties build their skepticism on other hegemonic discourses. It investigates whether populist discourses can stimulate EU contestation and its implications for the persistence of Euroscepticism in Western European democracies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 19 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the diverse modes of European Union (EU) contestation, which are mobilized by radical parties. It aims to uncover the intricate relationship between these contestations and populist discourses. By examining the left-wing Podemos in Spain and the right-wing Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) in Germany, the book explores how rightist and leftist parties articulate populist discourses with representations and problematizations of Europe and the EU. It argues that radical parties also construct their Euroscepticism on other hegemonic discourses, making populism just one possible discursive articulation to mobilize the contestation of the EU. The book further investigates whether populist discourses can serve as a stimulus for EU contestation, thereby shedding light on the implications this may have for the persistence of Euroscepticism in Western European democracies. This insightful work will appeal to scholars and students of radical parties, democracy, democratic and political theory, populism, Euroscepticism, discourse studies, and comparative politics, as well as European studies.

Introduction:
The European Union (EU) has faced numerous challenges and contestations throughout its history. Radical parties have played a significant role in shaping these debates, leveraging populist discourses to mobilize their supporters and challenge the established order. This book seeks to explore the relationship between radical party contestation and populist discourses, examining how these two phenomena interact and influence each other.

Modes of European Union (EU) Contestation Mobilized by Radical Parties:
Radical parties employ a range of modes of EU contestation, including protests, street demonstrations, political rallies, and social media campaigns. These modes of contestation aim to raise awareness about the perceived shortcomings of the EU and to mobilize support for alternative policies and ideologies. One of the key ways in which radical parties articulate populist discourses is by framing the EU as an undemocratic institution that is dominated by powerful elites and interests. They argue that the EU's policies and regulations are often imposed on member states without their consent, leading to a loss of sovereignty and a decline in democratic legitimacy.

Relationship between Radical Party Contestation and Populist Discourse:
The relationship between radical party contestation and populist discourse is complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, radical parties often use populist rhetoric and imagery to appeal to their supporters and gain political traction. They often frame their arguments in a way that resonates with the concerns and frustrations of ordinary people, who feel left behind by the mainstream political establishment. On the other hand, populist discourses can also be used by radical parties to delegitimize the EU and to promote a sense of national identity and sovereignty.

Examples of Radical Party Contestation and Populist Discourse:
To illustrate the relationship between radical party contestation and populist discourse, the book examines the case of the left-wing Podemos in Spain and the right-wing Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) in Germany. Podemos, a party that emerged in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, has been characterized as a populist party due to its focus on anti-austerity policies, direct democracy, and a rejection of the established political elite. In Germany, the AfD has gained significant support in recent years, largely due to its anti-immigration rhetoric and its opposition to the EU's migration policies.

Implications for the Persistence of Euroscepticism in Western European Democracies:
The persistence of Euroscepticism in Western European democracies is a significant concern for policymakers and scholars alike. While populist discourses can serve as a stimulus for EU contestation, they can also contribute to the fragmentation of political discourse and the erosion of trust in democratic institutions. The book argues that it is important to understand the dynamics of radical party contestation and populist discourse to develop effective strategies for promoting EU integration and countering Euroscepticism.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive analysis of the modes of European Union (EU) contestation mobilized by radical parties and the relationship between these contestations and populist discourses. It sheds light on the ways in which radical parties use populist rhetoric and imagery to appeal to their supporters and gain political traction, while also exploring the ways in which populist discourses can be used to delegitimize the EU and promote a sense of national identity and sovereignty. By understanding the dynamics of these two phenomena, policymakers and scholars can develop effective strategies for promoting EU integration and countering Euroscepticism in Western European democracies.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032466682