Explainer: Understanding Populism

Populism is a political approach that seeks to appeal to ordinary people who feel their concerns are disregarded by established elite groups. It frames politics as a struggle between “the people” and “the elites”. Populism can appear across the political spectrum and in different contexts, influencing policy debates and elections.

In this explainer, we unpack how populist movements arise and why they resonate with voters. By understanding the dynamics of populism, we can better engage in informed discussions about governance and democracy.