The Rise of Populism and Illiberalismin East-Central Europe

Catalog description

Why are Poland, Hungary, and other East-Central European (ECE) States moving away from democracy, market economies and the European Union toward populist politics? After the collapse of Communism in 1989, ECE states embraced democracy, liberal economics and their ‘return to Europe’ after decades of Soviet domination. By 2007 all had entered the European Union, and political scientists viewed most as ‘consolidated’ democracies. In the years since, populist parties have emerged, won elections, and promoted illiberal, nationalistic and anti-EU policies. The class focuses on explaining this dramatic political change, focusing on economic pressures, identity politics, societal welfare, and other factors.