Abstract
Whether right-wing populist parties pose a threat or a corrective for democracies has been a matter of extensive theoretical debate. This chapter examines the effect these parties exert on democratic quality by means of a comparative quantitative analysis. Focusing on democracies in Western and Eastern Europe, it takes a closer look at democracy’s partial regimes, such as the rule of law, representation, the public sphere, and participation. The results are twofold: First, in line with the theoretical expectations, right-wing populists have a negative effect on democratic quality when they are in government. Second, indirect effects caused by populists’ electoral successes are rare. While the presence of populists enhances participation and aspects of representation, they have a negative influence on the public sphere.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
