Research project Radical Right-wing Parties in Europe: A Comparative Study
The purpose of this research project is to conduct a comparative study of radical right-wing parties in Europe.The general aim is to identify factors that explain why such parties have succeeded in some countries, while largely failing in others.
There will be a special focus on three specific aspects, which are deemed to be particularly important. First, this research project focuses on the relationship between class politics and the reemergence of radical right-wing parties. For example, to date there are no systematic, comparative studies of the role of labor unions in the de- and realignment processes that have prepared the ground for radical right-wing mobilization. Strong unions, associated with the political left, may sustain working-class identities and work as a shield against radical right-wing party mobilization.
Second, we will provide a systematic study of cross-national diffusion of frames. Can we observe increased fragmentation within the party family of radical right-wing parties in Europe, or even divergence? Or will we see convergence over time and, if so, to what extent will this convergence be the result of mutual influence?
Third, we will follow up on a previous study by the PI, which demonstrated that the frame that links immigration and multiculturalism to social tension and unrest was particularly effective in attracting voters, as were frames that relate immigration and crime.
Project members
Project managers
Jens Rydgren
Professor of Sociology
