Thursday Seminars by Matthijs Rooduijn

The Far-Right Success Story   

Abstract

Across Europe and beyond, far-right parties are gaining ground. They challenge the political establishment, reshape public debate, and appeal to voters from different social and economic backgrounds. What explains their success? Why do their messages resonate with so many people? And what does their rise mean for the future of liberal democracy? In this seminar we will unpack the dynamics behind the rise of the far right. Drawing on insights from research in this field, we will explore the social and political conditions that fuel their appeal and the strategies far-right parties use to win over voters. One key conclusion is that far right parties have become skilful communicators of captivating narratives about the past and the future, and about heroes and villains. The talk will also address how mainstream parties respond, how shifting media landscapes shape this development, and what this political transformation means for democratic systems. 

Bio

Matthijs Rooduijn is Professor of Transdisciplinary Social Science at the University of Amsterdam. He studies the political ideas of parties and voters, the forces that weaken and strengthen liberal democracy, and the practice of European and Dutch politics.