An ideological shift is reshaping Western democracies. This transformation is not limited to electoral politics but extends to broader changes in governance, social values, and international relations. While much of the focus has been on Western nations, this shift has also influenced political and economic developments in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Since the end of the Cold War, liberalism has been the dominant political ideology in the West, advocating for individual freedoms, free markets, secular governance, and globalization. However, this model now faces significant challenges. Global crises exposed deep flaws in neoliberal economic policies, leading to widening wealth inequality and declining trust in traditional institutions. In response to these growing frustrations, conservative movements have gained traction, offering alternatives that emphasize nationalism, economic protectionism, and cultural preservation.
In the aftermath of the Cold War, liberal democracy and free-market capitalism experienced significant global expansion. This period, often referred to as the “Third Wave of Democratization,” saw numerous countries transitioning to democratic governance. Simultaneously, globalization accelerated, leading to increased economic interdependence among nations. The 2008 financial crisis marked a critical juncture, exposing vulnerabilities in neoliberal economic policies and leading to widespread public disillusionment. This economic downturn discredited longstanding market-driven policies, creating space for populist alternatives. In the years following the financial crisis, there was a notable increase in nationalism and populism. Economic insecurity and cultural anxieties contributed to the growing appeal of populist movements that challenged traditional liberal institutions.
The global shift toward conservatism stems from a confluence of economic, cultural, and political factors. Economically, rising income inequality and a sense of marginalization among working-class populations have fueled a backlash against established liberal policies. This sentiment significantly influenced events such as Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential victory and the United Kingdom’s Brexit referendum, where concerns over economic disparities and national sovereignty were prominent. Additionally, anti-globalization sentiments have surged, with significant pushback against free trade agreements and economic integration perceived to favour elites over ordinary citizens. Culturally, there has been a pronounced reaction against progressive ideologies, often labelled as ‘wokeness,’ encompassing debates over gender identity, LGBTQ+ rights, and political correctness. This backlash has manifested in policies like Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill, reflecting a broader resistance to rapid social changes. Moreover, fears surrounding immigration and demographic shifts have intensified, with concerns about national identity loss fueling the rise of anti-immigrant rhetoric and parties, such as the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and Italy’s Brothers of Italy led by Giorgia Meloni. Politically, there has been a notable realignment characterized by the emergence of ‘strongman’ leaders who advocate for illiberal democracy, characterized by manipulation and corruption. Figures like Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil, Narendra Modi in India, Viktor Orban in Hungary, and Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Turkey exemplify this trend, often consolidating power by challenging traditional liberal institutions and norms. This erosion of trust extends to media, judicial systems, and democratic processes, contributing to a global environment where conservative populism thrives.
In recent years, youth-led movements have significantly influenced global political discourse. The Fridays for Future movement, initiated by Greta Thunberg, has mobilized millions worldwide to demand urgent climate action. In September 2022, for instance, over 30,000 people participated in a climate strike in Berlin. Similarly, youth-driven protests in Iran have highlighted demands for greater freedoms and governmental reforms, reflecting a broader resistance to authoritarianism. In the United States, the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement has brought issues of racial injustice and police brutality to the forefront, influencing policy discussions and raising awareness globally. Also, recent elections have demonstrated that liberalism retains significant support. In 2020, Joe Biden defeated incumbent President Donald Trump, while in Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva achieved a political comeback by narrowly defeating far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro in the 2022 presidential election. Furthermore, some conservative factions have begun integrating traditionally liberal policies, particularly concerning social welfare. This blend, often termed “populist conservatism,” reflects an adaptation to public demands for economic support mechanisms. For example, certain right-leaning parties in Europe have endorsed welfare state measures to appeal to broader electorates, indicating a pragmatic shift within conservative politics. These developments suggest that, despite challenges, liberal ideals continue to influence global political dynamics, often adapting and evolving in response to contemporary issues.
While conservatism is surging globally, liberalism is not in decline but is evolving. Economic frustration, cultural anxieties, and political distrust have fueled right-wing movements, but progressive activism, electoral shifts, and policy adaptations show liberalism’s resilience. The key question is whether conservatism will sustain its momentum or if liberalism will adapt and reclaim influence. Youth activism, climate movements, and shifting political landscapes suggest an ongoing ideological tug-of-war. Rather than a permanent transformation, this shift seems cyclical. As history shows, political dominance fluctuates; whether conservatism cements its rise or liberalism regains ground remains to be seen.
This is an article written by a Staff Writer. Catalyst is a student-led platform that fosters engagement with global issues from a learning perspective. The opinions expressed above do not necessarily reflect the views of the publication.
Edited by Francesca Abou Jamra
