Democracy in Question‪?‬ Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy

This episode explores the implications of the U.K. elections which took place on July 4. What does a return to centrism mean for British politics? And how do socio-economic transformations and fragmented cultural horizons play a role? Listen to also hear what the results could mean for transatlantic relations.

This episode explores the immediate consequences of South Africa’s recent parliamentary elections and the historical trajectory of the African National Congress. How does a vibrant sphere of civil society activism play a role in the country? And what is to be learned from the "FeesMustFall" protests against the attempted restructuring of higher education? Listen to hear about the prospects for addressing South Africa’s structural and geopolitical challenges.

This episode explores the recent European elections and the EU’s political drift to the right. What were the major issues, campaign themes and decisive factors which led to the results? And does the political center still hold if many right-wing positions have already been mainstreamed? Listen to hear about the new dynamics that will affect the future direction of the EU and the geopolitical challenges Europe will face during the upcoming U.S. elections.

This episode explores how populism has irreversibly transformed the political landscape. How does digital media play a role in this phenomenon and why has populism been successful in some advanced western democracies? Listen to hear about the pitfalls of technocratic governance and the challenges posed by alliances of populist political forces.

This episode explores Islamophobia across Europe as a form of structural racism. How does Islamophobia operate as a tool of diversion and division? And why do such perceptions play a crucial role in European politics today? Listen to hear about the prospects for emancipatory politics on various scales to combat Islamophobia.

This episode explores the crises of liberalism. How do recent conditions of uncertainty and multiple crises play a role in amplifying the appeal of illiberal ideologies? And how does illiberalism differ from authoritarianism and populism? Tune in to hear how the defense of liberalism requires a connection to the everyday concerns and grievances of citizens.