Rise of right-wing populism: comparative study of populism in Italy and USA

Abstract

The liberal democracies of the West are facing a new challenge in the form of rising right-wing populism. Populism as a political approach is guiding the political discourse and systems of USA and Italy which are otherwise liberal democracies; a paradoxical situation. This research explores the phenomenon of populism with a comparative focus on Italy and USA. The rise of populism is worrisome for many scholars as it negates the ideals of liberalism further giving rise to antagonism against ruling elites coupled with anti-establishment and anti-globalization agendas. However, surprisingly, the populist approach is being exploited by the elites themselves. Furthermore, the research is also trying to unfold and understand the factors that are contributing towards this wave of populism and the challenges it poses to the liberal world order.