Populism is a term that has gained traction in political discussions, yet it has often been misrepresented by Western media, which tends to associate it with negative implications. The Oxford Dictionary describes populism as “a political approach that strives to appeal to ordinary people who feel their concerns are disregarded by established elite groups.” This definition underscores the complex nature of populism, which cannot be easily categorized. Figures such as Donald Trump, Imran Khan, and Marine Le Pen have been labeled as populists, but a deeper understanding of populism requires us to move past sensational headlines and examine its various forms spanning from progressive movements to nationalist agendas and its effects on democratic governance around the globe.
Western media often depicts populism as chaotic and divisive, frequently using Trump and Khan as prime examples. Trump’s “America First” slogan struck a chord with voters disillusioned by globalization and political stagnation, yet media narratives often simplified his populism to mere xenophobia and authoritarianism. Likewise, Khan’s “Naya Pakistan” campaign, which focused on anti-corruption and socioeconomic reforms, was portrayed as destabilizing rather than addressing real issues. This selective coverage reduces populism to a mere caricature, neglecting its democratic foundations and oversimplifying the political and social dynamics that drive it.
The gap between the theoretical understanding of populism and its media portrayal raises important questions. Why is the act of appealing to ordinary people seen as inherently problematic? The answer may lie in the interests of elite groups whether political, corporate, or media—that feel threatened by populism’s challenge to the established order. Populists disrupt the institutions that shape public discourse, questioning entrenched power dynamics. However, the rich diversity of populism across different cultural and political landscapes is often overlooked, resulting in a one-dimensional narrative that diminishes its democratic potential. By misrepresenting populism, media outlets safeguard existing power structures.
Critics have often misrepresented the true nature of populism, ignoring its foundation in democratic principles specifically, its role in amplifying the voices of the marginalized and holding unaccountable elites accountable. Instead of perceiving populism as a danger, we should see it as a vital demand for change, emerging from widespread dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. Leaders like Trump and Khan, despite their shortcomings, have connected with genuine grievances that traditional elites have overlooked. Their rise in popularity underscores systemic failures and the urgent need for a more inclusive political framework.
Interpreting populism solely through the lens of Western media simplifies its complexities and obscures its democratic nature. While populism is frequently portrayed as a danger to democracy, this viewpoint fails to recognize the legitimate frustrations that fuel it. By outright dismissing populism, we miss its role in holding elites accountable and addressing structural inequalities. As more people gravitate towards populism instead of liberalism, it becomes crucial to question why liberal democratic systems have struggled to provide equity, justice, and representation. Even leaders like Joe Biden, who advocate for liberal values, contribute to the rise of populism by not addressing systemic inequities. This situation raises important questions about the ability of liberal democracy to adapt to the changing needs of everyday citizens.
Populism, despite its flaws, signifies a demand for greater accountability and inclusion, prompting us to reconsider the frameworks that govern our lives. To grasp the true nature of populism, we must move past simplistic narratives. Populism is not inherently divisive; it reflects people’s frustrations with systems that have failed them. Instead of dismissing it as a threat, we should recognize it as a democratic force advocating for a more equitable and representative political order.
Afifa Kamran
The writer is a student of International Relations.