Democracy, Populism, and the Crisis of Political Legitimacy in Europe

Abstract

In recent decades, European democracies have confronted a profound crisis of political legitimacy alongside the rapid rise of populist movements. This paper examines the interrelated dynamics shaping this crisis: democratic erosion, socio-economic stagnation, cultural anxieties, and disillusionment with established political parties. Drawing on political theory, empirical case studies, and normative debates within democratic thought, the study analyzes how populism both reflects and exacerbates legitimacy deficits in European polities. After mapping the conceptual terrain of democracy and legitimacy (§2), the paper surveys the rise of populism and its drivers (§3), then explores the legitimacy crisis within European institutions (§4). Section five critically assesses whether populism functions as a corrective to democratic deficits or as a threat to liberal pluralism. The conclusion offers perspectives on strengthening democratic legitimacy in Europe’s fractious political environment.