Linking Euroscepticism and Populism (EUPopLink)

The EUPopLink COST Action (CA23102) investigates the complex and evolving relationship between populism and Euroscepticism in contemporary Europe. While these phenomena are often treated as interchangeable, the project argues that their nexus is contingent and strategic rather than deterministic. Not all populists express Eurosceptic views, and Euroscepticism is not inherently populist. Conceptual Framework and Ideological Cleavages The European Union (EU) is frequently framed by populist actors as the "other"—a remote, technocratic elite standing in opposition to the "pure people". This opposition is shaped by distinct ideological traditions: Right-Wing Populism: Primarily targets the EU through a "traditionalist-authoritarian-nationalist" (TAN) lens. It views the EU as a threat to national sovereignty and cultural identity, often advocating for a "Europe of Nations". Left-Wing Populism: Critiques the EU based on socio-economic cleavages. It challenges neoliberal governance and austerity measures, often proposing a democratic "Social Europe" that prioritizes workers over corporate interests. The Impact of the Polycrisis The current "polycrisis" era—characterized by financial instability, the COVID-19 pandemic, and geopolitical conflicts like the war in Ukraine—has forced a strategic evolution among populist actors. This has resulted in a sophisticated two-level strategy: Institutional Level: Increased pragmatism to maintain political viability while in power. Communicative Level: Radicalized, opportunistic rhetoric, especially on social media, where crises are instrumentalized as evidence of EU failure to mobilize voters.