Populism studies seem to have a contentious relationship with the concept of minorities. In many cases, populism can serve as a unifying discursive strategy that brings together divergent underdog groups. In its radical right form, minority groups frequently serve as a scapegoat, blamed for the ills facing the “ordinary people” the populist claims to represent. But more often than not, minorities are not in substantive focus when analysing populist discourse, strategies or ideologies.
This workshop zooms into the relationship between populism and social group. Under what conditions and how are minorities incorporated among ‘the people’? Why do some groups have a higher likelihood of incorporation whilst others are doomed to remain the scapegoat? When and how do some minority groups break out of the scapegoat status and become the ‘good minority’? Why and under what conditions do populist actors facilitate this? What are the political outcomes of such discursive shifts?
This workshop particularly welcomes exploratory case studies and comparative analyses examining various types of political actors who employ populism as a discursive, ideational, or organizational strategy – whether left-wing, right-wing, valence populist, more radical, or moderate. Furthermore, theoretical papers adopting diverse theoretical perspectives to explore the relationship between populism and social groups are also encouraged.
Host institution and location
The workshop will take place at Tallinn University in Estonia (map), as an on-site event.
Deadlines
Please submit a 300-word abstract by 27 February 2025 using the form below (slightly delayed submissions are acceptable).
Acceptance notifications will be sent out on or before March 10, 2025.
If you have any questions, please send us an email:
mari-liis.jakobson@tlu.ee
marina.vahter@tlu.ee
For detailed overview of the venue, as well as transportation and select accommodation and sightseeing options, view the Practicalities page.
Abstract submission
Deadline: February 17, 2025
If you cannot see the form, click here