
Economist Podcasts Right, here, waiting: Europe’s populists on the rise
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Dec 12, 2025 Tom Nuttall, the Berlin bureau chief, explores the surprising rise of Alternative for Germany, while Sophie Petter, from Paris, delves into the growing influence of France's National Rally. Matthew Holhouse, covering Britain, discusses the emerging power of Reform UK and its implications for the Conservative Party. The trio examines the common threads uniting these populist movements, including anti-immigration sentiments and elite skepticism. They also debate strategies for mainstream parties, revealing the ongoing evolution of Europe's political landscape.
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Centre Parties Losing Ground
- Europe's centrists are losing ground to populist-right parties across multiple countries.
- Hosts highlight Reform UK, AfD and France's National Rally as leading examples of this trend.
Immigration Anchors Right-Wing Appeal
- Anti-immigration sentiment unites the populist-right movements in France, Germany and Britain.
- Sophie Petter links xenophobia, Euroscepticism and 'country-first' rhetoric as common threads.
Shared Themes, Diverging Radicalisation
- Parties show similar themes: immigration, anti-elitism, and cultural restoration.
- Tom Nuttall warns AfD is growing more radical and linked to extremist groups, unlike moderation seen elsewhere.



