The paradox of female leadership in right-wing populist parties in Europe

Abstract

The rise of female leaders in European right-wing populist parties (RWPPs) presents a striking paradox. Traditionally associated with antifeminism and rigid gender roles, these parties have paradoxically elevated women to leadership positions. This dissertation delves into the strategic, ideological, and sociopolitical forces behind this phenomenon, unravelling how RWPPs balance their patriarchal roots with the pragmatic advantages of female leadership. Using a qualitative, multi-method approach, this study weaves together literature on gender, leadership, political parties, and right-wing populism. Through in-depth case studies of Giorgia Meloni (Fratelli d’Italia) and Alice Weidel (Alternative for Germany), it explores how RWPPs deploy female leaders to widen their appeal, refine their public image, and craft political narratives that resonate across diverse voter bases. The findings reveal that the prominence of female leaders in RWPPs does not signify a shift towards genuine gender equality but rather a calculated move to modernize party optics while preserving nationalist and exclusionary ideologies. These women both challenge and reinforce traditional gender norms, leveraging maternal and professional identities to enhance party credibility. Their leadership serves as a bridge between ideological contradictions, attracting traditionalist and moderate voters while subtly sustaining anti-feminist and patriarchal narratives. This study sheds light on the intersections of gender, populism, and political strategy, illustrating how RWPPs harness female leadership as a tool for political gain rather than ideological evolution. By unpacking this paradox, it offers critical insights into the evolving landscape of European politics and the role of gender in shaping right-wing populist movements.