Recapturing the Reluctant Radical: How to Win Back Europe’s Populist Vote
Author(s):
The political world has in recent years grown increasingly concerned at the threat of right-wing populism in Europe. This concern has focussed on the committed hard core of right-wing populism. Yet the real threat comes from the uncommitted, wavering supporters – the “reluctant radicals”. But who are these voters? Are they the usual suspects – young, male and disadvantaged – or do they not fit this profile? What drives them to vote for the populist right? And what distinguishes them from the more committed supporters? Politicians cannot afford to ignore these voters. Not only are they numerous – they are also the most easily persuadable of right-wing populist supporters. But how can mainstream parties win back their vote? Now Counterpoint sharpens the picture of these diverse and uncommitted voters through original quantitative analysis in ten European countries.