Over the past few weeks, my research into right-wing populism in Europe has deepened my understanding of how religion, education, and media shape this phenomenon. These elements are crucial to populism’s appeal and spread across the continent.
Religion, especially Christianity, is often used by populists more as a cultural symbol than a matter of faith. Leaders like Matteo Salvini in Italy invoke Christian symbols to rally support, defend national identity, and resist perceived threats like globalization and immigration. This form of cultural Christianity creates a clear divide between “us” – native-born citizens, particularly those of Christian heritage – and “them,” often immigrants, especially Muslims, portraying detachment from traditional values and overly accommodating to foreign influences.
During my research, I also uncovered that support for right-wing populist movements is not monolithic; it spans diverse motivations and backgrounds. While some supporters are driven by contemporary political concerns, such as immigration and economic instability, there is a significant segment whose allegiance to right-wing populism is deeply rooted in cultural or familial traditions. I had the opportunity to speak with an individual who was born and raised in a small town in what was once East Germany. She described how, in her community, negative attitudes toward immigrants were almost as commonplace as casual remarks about the weather. This normalization of xenophobic discourse reflects a broader cultural undercurrent in certain regions, where right-wing populism is not just a political stance but a way of life passed down through generations. This observation highlights how, in some areas, right-wing populist beliefs are ingrained in the local culture and social fabric.
Moreover, I spoke with Kadir Boyaci, an interfaith and intercultural dialogue professional and the Secretary General of Bund Deutscher Dialog Institutionen (BDDI) in Frankfurt, Germany. Mr. Boyaci highlights how education fosters critical thinking, promotes social cohesion, and challenges the simplistic narratives often propagated by populist movements. Educational initiatives that emphasize the value of diversity and the dangers of stereotyping can help reduce the appeal of populist rhetoric. By equipping individuals with the tools to critically evaluate information, education can serve as a powerful antidote to the fear and misinformation that fuel populist movements.
The role of media in the rise of right-wing populism cannot be overstated. Media has always been a powerful force in shaping public opinion, but its influence has grown exponentially in the digital age. With the advent of artificial intelligence, combating fake news has become increasingly challenging. This is particularly concerning given that immigration – a central issue for populists – is a frequent topic in the media. One aspect of media coverage that stood out during my research is the use of language that reinforces negative stereotypes about immigrants. For instance, terms like “kulturfremd” (culturally alien) or “ungebildet” (uneducated) in German news subtly suggest that immigrants lack the skills to integrate. Such language marginalizes immigrants, portraying them as a burden, while sensationalist terms like “mainstream refugee wave” serve to alarm readers and contribute to polarization. This kind of language plays directly into the hands of populist leaders, who exploit these fears to gain support.
An interesting debate that emerged from my research is who should be responsible for regulating the media. While some argue that governments or tech giants should take on this responsibility, there is also a strong case for society’s role in this matter.
My research journey has been enlightening. It has revealed how deeply interconnected religion, education, media, and cultural traditions are in the rise of right-wing populism in Europe. As I continue my work, I am committed to further exploring these dynamics and uncovering the deeper roots of this significant political trend.
Author: Joon Park