Leiden University Student Repository

Dell'Aquia, Stephanie (2019)

Populism on the Rise and Xenophobia: A Contemporary Analysis of Populist Rhetoric in Italy and Poland

Bachelor thesis | International Studies (BA)

Populism is a current political phenomenon in Europe. During the last ten years, the number of immigrants in Europe has intensified. Far-right populist political parties propose anti-immigration, suggest xenophobic sentiments and take advantage of this significant European issue to gain popularity. By using a cultural and political perspective, this thesis has considered two case studies: Italy and Poland, which show to have high levels of xenophobia. The paper aimed at showing how Italian and Polish populists governing parties use a strategic reference to the constructed national identity and anti-EU rhetoric to instigate fear and xenophobia.

Populism

Xenophobia

Populist Rhetoric

Italy

Poland

Author

Dell'Aquia, Stephanie

Note

The thesis highlights some of the most crucial features that show xenophobia in populist rhetoric. However, this phenomenon is a significant topical subject and due to its relevance needs further research.

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Specialisation

International Studies

Supervisors

Ieven, Bram

ECTS Credits

15

Language

en