By Matt Underwood The allure of figures like Baudet, AfD, and Salvini lies in their ability to exploit the very real anxieties and insecurities of certain segments of society. Their followers, often those with limited resources and education, feel a sense of desperation amidst economic instability and social change. They are easily manipulated by the narrative of “the other,” the migrant, the LGBTQ+ individual, the “undeserving” recipient of government aid, who is presented as the enemy stealing their hard-earned privileges and leaving them behind.
This fear is skillfully amplified by these politicians, who paint a picture of a zero-sum game, where any benefit given to “the other” comes at the expense of their own wellbeing. They capitalize on the resentment that can arise when people see others seemingly receiving more than they do, especially when they struggle to make ends meet. It’s a powerful cocktail of anger and fear, fueled by a lack of understanding and a desperate yearning for someone to blame for their plight.
The reality is far more nuanced, and often the scapegoats are themselves the victims of a system that benefits the elite. Yet, the narrative of “them” versus “us” resonates with those who feel overlooked and disempowered. They cling to the promise that a return to a mythical past of “shared values” and “national unity” will somehow deliver them from their struggles. This “unity,” however, is often built on a foundation of exclusion and discrimination, a dangerous path that ultimately leads to further marginalization and societal decay.
These politicians are not offering solutions; they are peddling fear and resentment, exploiting anxieties to gain power. They may not consciously hate “the other,” but they actively perpetuate hate by creating an atmosphere of fear and division, a dangerous game with devastating consequences.
The irony is that these politicians rarely, if ever, address the real root causes of the problems they exploit. Their focus is on scapegoating, on demonizing the marginalized and the vulnerable. In reality, their policies often further exacerbate the very economic and social problems they claim to be solving. Their actions, often fueled by self-serving ambitions, can lead to a downward spiral, creating a climate of mistrust and resentment that ultimately benefits no one.
It’s crucial to recognize that fear-mongering is not a legitimate political strategy. It’s a tactic used by those who seek to divide and conquer, to exploit vulnerabilities and to solidify their power. The true solution lies in building bridges of understanding and empathy, in addressing the root causes of inequality and insecurity, and in working together to create a society that offers opportunity and justice for all.