Transnational diffusion of identity politics

We study a model of multidimensional politics in which voting decisions are shaped not only by voters’ preferences regarding redistribution but also by their identities. In our framework, which focus on nationalism, voters can trade material gains from redistribution for immaterial benefits from identity politics (i.e. more/less nationalism). Building on this widely accepted approach, we propose a novel channel for the transnational diffusion of identity politics. Specifically, we argue that changes in identity-related policies abroad can affect domestic voting behaviour through two mechanisms: First, by changing voters’ perceptions of the social acceptability of identities, and second, by changing the perceived relative benefits of adopting particular identities. Both mechanisms yield positive spillovers from foreign to domestic identity politics that originate from the domestic voters. Based on this approach, our model shows that temporary shocks (i.e. events that induce more/less domestic identity politics) can lead to permanent changes in the composition of the domestic society and thus in domestic identity politics. This result is driven by cultural rigidity when voters are able to intentionally adopt new identities. Such rigidity helps to stabilise the society by reducing extreme swings in societal identity composition, but also prevents voters from adopting individually optimal identities. Our model also highlights the influence of identity-based groups. Even without direct political influence, they can provide intrinsic benefits to members and consolidate group power, thereby becoming catalysts for future political influence. Finally, we discuss the implications of our findings for policy making, highlighting the role of access to information and education.