On the edge of the center - How parties normalize illiberal discourses (O-lecture)

Based on political science findings and the speaker's experience as a political advisor, the lecture deals with the tendency of democratic parties to adopt the positions and discourses of right-wing populist parties. Right-wing populist parties are now represented in almost all Western European parliaments and even hold government responsibility as junior partners in some countries. These forces embody a reaction, a "backlash", against the Western European trend towards liberal values: the rejection of multicultural societies, immigration and the emancipation of women and sexual, cultural and religious minorities. Although right-wing populist parties are relevant players, they do not achieve political majorities in most Western European countries. Authoritarian nationalist values are a minority position and are shared by fewer and fewer people. These parties are therefore dependent on cooperation with democratic actors and the implementation of their agenda by them. Democratic "mainstream parties" often adopt illiberal positions and discourses when they believe they have no other way to stop the loud voices on the right. The central thesis of the lecture is that the behavior of democratic parties can pose a greater threat to liberal-democratic values than the radical right itself. By normalizing illiberal discourse, they contribute significantly to the erosion of democratic norms. Case studies from Western Europe, with a particular focus on Denmark, will be used to illustrate the consequences such a takeover strategy can have for liberal democratic principles and social minorities. The lecture concludes with recommendations for democratic parties and civil society. - Registration required.

Course number: 252102422O