The return of Populism in the 21st century

Ioannis Panoussis and Andrew Glencross will open the FUCE Summer School 2025 with an engaging lecture on the hot topic of populism and hate.

As populism continues to gain ground in Europe and beyond, this talk will explore the threats it poses to democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights. The two speakers will analyse how populist rhetoric targets migrants, minorities, progressive institutions and politicians, fuelling tensions and divisions.

Ioannis Panoussis, a specialist in international human rights law, will highlight the legal and political challenges raised by illiberal populism. Drawing on his experience as a dean, judge at the National Court of Asylum and humanitarian expert, he will shed practical light on the impact of these discourses on democratic systems.

Andrew Glencross, Director of ESPOL and a leading expert on European integration, will look at the populist strategy of exploiting popular resentment. He will show how this emotional rhetoric, based on the designation of common enemies, serves to mobilise public opinion while weakening the foundations of democratic debate.

Through this conference, the two speakers will invite us to reflect collectively on how we can resist this political drift and rebuild a culture of dialogue and respect.

It will be conducted in English.