We analyse a successful new group of parties that combine anti-corruption and anti-establishment with mainstream ideological orientation and moderate policies on political and social reforms. Major examples of such anti-establishment reform parties (AERPs) include Forza Italia and Five Star movement (Italy), Simeon II National Movement (Bulgaria), New Era (Latvia), List Pim Fortuyn (Netherlands), Res Publica (Estonia), the Dedecker List (Belgium), Freedom and Solidarity (Slovakia), Public Affairs (Czech Republic), Team Stronach (Austria) and Positive Slovenia. The paper studies the conditions for AERP electoral breakthroughs using fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis, focussing on elections in Central and Eastern Europe, where such parties have been particularly successful. We identify a small number of distinct paths for success, combining factors such as levels and change in perceived corruption, rising unemployment, economic growth and previous new party success. We conclude by discussing the potential for corruption as an issue to mobilize support for new political parties.
