Populism in power : a case study of left- and right-wing populist approaches to policy

Abstract

Populism is growing at an unprecedented rate, transforming itself in relation to the political arena and democratic landscape it finds itself in. On the other hand, democracy, with which populism is often in conflict, is said to be in a recession. The last two decades have given political analysts the opportunity to observe and analyse populist policies, particularly as people are becoming less interested in traditional politics. These factors are having a substantial effect on the way public policy is conducted, as policymakers risk abandoning their designated responsibilities, to accommodate popular trends. This study focuses on populism and its effect on democratic policies and policymaking, as charismatic leaders from both the left and the right side of the political spectrum take centre stage in their quest for power. This dissertation considers populist politicians when in power, not when in opposition, when criticising the establishment is easier. This study adopts a qualitative methodology, focusing on direct quotations from politicians of two major European populist parties during their time in power. Through thematic analysis, it identifies recurring patterns and themes in their rhetoric. Using Nadia Urbinati’s theory on populism as its theoretical framework, this dissertation analyses populists’ approaches to public policy, when they are policymakers. The study focuses on populism, not as an ideology, but as a tool employed by politicians within democratic politics, to consider how this form of politics approaches policymaking and the broader pillars of democratic politics within which it occurs.