From the landslide victory of Donald Trump in the USA to the victory of Narendra Modi for three consecutive terms, what commonality can be noticed? Starting from the world’s oldest democracy to the world’s largest democracy, one factor is pretty much evident everywhere. That is the victory of right-wing politics. In intricate and ever-evolving global politics, a noticeable shift has been taking place in recent years toward right-wing politics. The shift is the unmistakable rise of nationalistic, conservative parties. This phenomenon is not confined to a particular region but has spread its roots across diverse nations. Around the world, political analysts and citizens are analyzing the reasons behind this seismic shift. From the rise of nationalist leaders to the surge in anti-globalization sentiments, the landscape of politics is transforming. In this exploration, we will analyze the ten key reasons behind the nationalistic right-wing ideologies around the world.
Economic Anxiety
At the heart of the surge in right-wing politics lies economic anxiety. Globalization, while fostering interconnectivity, has also fueled economic disparities. Right after a pandemic when society was getting on its feet then back-to-back wars in the Middle East and between Russia-Ukraine just made the situation worse. Many individuals, particularly in Western countries, feel left behind as jobs move overseas. Outsourcing of Western jobs, leading to a surge in support for leaders who promise to prioritize domestic industries and protect local economies. Right-wing leaders promise the recovery of the local job market by bringing new industries.
Immigration Concerns
The issue of immigration has become a potent force behind nationalist right-wing politics. In various regions, concerns about the influx of migrants have increased. Here concern increased due to an increase in violence in Western societies crime against women and children, distorted cultural shifts, insecure job markets, and terrorrist attacks. Westerners have realized immigration without any intention of assimilation can lead to two issues.
Firstly, it puts an extra burden on the economy. Study shows a majority of these immigrants are just abusing the generous welfare system of these Western countries and refusing to integrate into the labor market. The situation is equally dire in Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, and many other Western nations where the economy is facing a great challenge.
Secondly, the sudden surge in crime. Statistically mass immigration in Western countries has witnessed a sudden surge in many violent crimes. These include child rape, gang rape, terrorrist attacks, antisemitism, Hindu hatred, Christian attacks shop looting, violent protests, substance abuse, and the list goes on. Political leaders tapping into these anxieties find a receptive audience, promising strict immigration policies and national identity preservation.
Fear of Terrorism
Terrorism has significantly influenced public opinion, particularly in Western nations. Instances of terrorism have played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion towards right-wing ideologies. Heinous terror attacks in the past two decades have created a climate of fear. Fear is a powerful motivator, leading to increased support for policies emphasizing national security. Right-wing leaders often leverage genuine security concerns to advocate for stricter border controls, implementing effective surveillance measures, and a tougher stance on all practical external threats.
Identity Politics
Right-wing movements frequently emphasize identity, the eternal desire for cultural preservation, a sense of belonging, shared cultural values, and a common national identity. Leaders championing these ideologies appeal to common citizens the most. Such leaders resonate with the crisis of the Indigenous middle class and lower middle class. These groups of people are often at the receiving ends of all such failed globalization and multiculturalism experiments. These leaders resonate with citizens who fear losing their cultural heritage.
Reaction Against Liberalism
The rise of right-wing politics can be seen as a backlash against the excesses of liberal ideologies. Issues such as political correctness, affirmative action, and LGBTQ+ rights have polarized societies. Supporters often express frustration with this erosion of traditional values. Liberal ideologies have overturned an ethical moral society and curated a notion that is anything but just.
In the name of political correctness police and law enforcement departments hesitate to punish those criminals who are from immigrant minority backgrounds. This attitude has promoted a two-tier policing system that is unnecessarily harsh for the Indigenous community. In the name of affirmative action left-wing liberal government promotes men in women’s private places, including washrooms, bathrooms, and locker rooms. Another issue is the genital mutilation of the underage male and female child in the name of LGBTQ+ rights.
To be more precise liberal ideologists trying to push the notion, which is sex can be changed via surgery. Gender is a state of mind and a matter of social conditioning. Too much affirmation for such behaviors creates a distorted social order. Right-wing leaders are positioning themselves as the champion of conservative ideals, striking a chord with basic common sense, moral and ethical values those seeking a return to traditional norms.
Social Media Influence
Social media has transformed political discourse, offering right-wing leaders a direct and highly effective platform to connect with voters. These social media platforms have provided a powerful and reasonable voice to right-wing ideologies. Algorithms often create echo chambers, reinforcing users’ existing beliefs and amplifying nationalist sentiments. The users were craving for voices that they could resonate and these platforms offered them the outlets. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube have been instrumental in spreading conservative ideologies, often bypassing traditional media gatekeepers. Political leaders adopt these platforms to rapidly connect with like-minded individuals, creating echo chambers that reinforce and amplify nationalist sentiments.
Erosion of Trust in Institutions
A growing distrust in government institutions and mainstream media has fueled anti-establishment sentiments. A decline in trust in established institutions, including government bodies and mainstream media, has fueled support for anti-establishment figures. Right-wing leaders position themselves as outsiders challenging a corrupt status quo. These leaders promote right-wing politics and capitalize on the disillusionment that many citizens feel towards traditional institutions. This narrative appeals to frustrated voters seeking accountability and transparency in governance.
Economic Nationalism
Economic nationalism, which prioritizes domestic industries and self-sufficiency, has gained widespread appeal. The importance of protecting domestic industries and jobs has hit the right chords. Somehow, people have realized indiscriminate outsourcing does not create jobs and eventually, it destroys the economy. Countries have witnessed a resurgence of protectionist policies, with leaders advocating for tariffs, trade barriers, and incentives for local production. Even before the swearing-in ceremony the newly elected US President Donald Trump has already threatened other nations with high tariffs. Right-wing leaders advocating for economic nationalism appeal to citizens’ desires for self-sufficiency and economic stability. In an increasingly interconnected world, this approach resonates with citizens concerned about economic stability and job security.
Globalization Backlash
While globalization has facilitated economic growth, it has also led to job displacement and cultural shifts. The backlash against globalization has manifested in support for right-wing leaders who promise to prioritize national interests over international cooperation and agreements. Many view globalization as a threat to national sovereignty. According to many, this led to a backlash against international agreements and institutions. Right-wing leaders exploit this sentiment by promising to prioritize national interests over global cooperation.
Rise of Popular Leaders
The emergence of charismatic popular leaders has been a defining feature of the right-wing surge. These right-wing leaders connect with citizens effectively. They can address the grievances in straightforward, relatable terms to address their concerns and challenges. By positioning themselves as champions of the common people, they build a loyal base that transcends traditional political divides.
As we witness the global rise of nationalistic right-wing politics, it becomes imperative to understand the multifaceted reasons behind this phenomenon. The reasons include economic, social, and cultural factors. Economic uncertainties, immigration concerns, and identity politics form a complex web that shapes the narrative. The erosion of trust in institutions forms the backbone of this trend, while the influence of social media and the appeal of popular leaders amplify its impact. Understanding these dynamics is essential for inclusive political discourse and addressing the underlying issues that have fueled this shift. Citizens, policymakers, and analysts alike must engage in thoughtful discourse to address the underlying issues and strive for a political landscape that fosters inclusivity, cooperation, and understanding. For similar interesting web content on geopolitics follow our Geopolitics Events section.