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Illiberal Politics in Europe: Ideology, Policies, and Impact

Author

Listed:
  • Zsolt Enyedi

    (Department of Political Science, Central European University, Austria / CEU Democracy Institute, Hungary)

  • Petra Guasti

    (Department of Political Science, Charles University, Czechia)

  • Dean Schafer

    (Department of Political Science and Public Administration, Mississippi State University, USA)

  • Bálint Mikola

    (CEU Democracy Institute, Hungary)

Abstract

Our thematic issue focuses on the ideological and discursive foundations, policy outputs, and institutional impact of illiberal parties in Europe. The contributions highlight how illiberal actors reshape democratic institutions, popular attitudes, cultural narratives, and welfare policies. They also consider how illiberal ideas spread through mainstream political discourse. Crucially, the issue explores both the diversity of illiberal ideologies and the mechanisms of democratic resilience. Together, these studies show that illiberalism is not merely a rhetorical style but a substantive challenge to liberal democracy that operates through institutional changes, policy, and discourse.

Suggested Citation

  • Zsolt Enyedi & Petra Guasti & Dean Schafer & Bálint Mikola, 2025. "Illiberal Politics in Europe: Ideology, Policies, and Impact," Politics and Governance, Cogitatio Press, vol. 13.
    • Handle: RePEc:cog:poango:v13:y:2025:a:10797
    DOI: 10.17645/pag.10797
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Attila Bartha & Zsolt Boda & Dorottya Szikra, 2020. "When Populist Leaders Govern: Conceptualising Populism in Policy Making," Politics and Governance, Cogitatio Press, vol. 8(3), pages 71-81.
    2. Attila Bartha & Zsolt Boda & Dorottya Szikra, 2020. "When Populist Leaders Govern: Conceptualising Populism in Policy Making," Politics and Governance, Cogitatio Press, vol. 8(3), pages 71-81.
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