How and Why have Far-Right Populist Parties Grown in Support in Germany and Italy, 2013-2023?
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Issue Date
2024-04-08
Authors
Henne, Alexander
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First Reader
Bianco, Timothy P.
Additional Readers
Oliver, Rebecca J.
Ludewig, Julia
Ludewig, Julia
Keywords
AfD , FdI , Rise of the Far-Right , Germany , Italy , anti-immigrant attitudes , economic insecurity , migration , refugees , Refugee Crisis of 2015
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Abstract
The surge of far-right populist parties in Western European nations, notably in Italy and Germany, has prompted substantial scholarly inquiry. This comprehensive project examines the AfD (Alternative für Deutschland) in Germany and the FdI (Fratelli d'Italia or Brothers of Italy) in Italy. The research delves into variables, such as anti-immigrant sentiments, economic insecurities, and migration policies, and examines current satisfaction levels with current government coalitions and how these variables have contributed to the rise of the far-right in Germany and Italy. The 2015 Migration Crisis acted as a pivotal catalyst, particularly propelling the AfD from electoral obscurity to becoming the main opposition party in Germany by 2017. Drawing from existing literature and survey data, this project establishes a correlation between higher dissatisfaction levels and far-right party support in both countries. Additionally, the research reveals a strategic pattern among far-right parties, where far-right parties will typically move from issue to issue (becoming ‘issue-entrepreneurs’) to capitalize on the mainstream parties not being able to address the main issues of concern of the electorate and gaining more votes. Through careful analysis, this study aims to deepen understanding of the far-right's ascent in Europe and its implications for democratic governance and political stability.
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Major
International Studies
Economics
Economics
Department
International Studies
Business and Economics
Business and Economics
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Honors
Business and Economics, 2024