Populism rises across Europe amid immigration concerns

The rise of populist political parties is reshaping the European political landscape, posing challenges to established democratic institutions and values. This trend is largely driven by concerns regarding immigration, a movement that gained significant momentum following the 2015 migration crisis.

In Germany, the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) has transitioned from a marginal group struggling to meet parliamentary thresholds to a dominant political player. In the United Kingdom, figures like Nigel Farage and his Reform UK party have emerged as significant factors capable of challenging the political establishment, even if they remain unlikely to form a government.

Research into these developments highlights the role of civil society in responding to populist growth. Studies across seven European countries examine various strategies used by public entities and civil society to oppose populist movements, aiming to understand the resilience of democratic systems and the potential impact of these oppositional initiatives.