Portuguese populism: People, parties, and politics

Abstract

This special issue explores the emergence and evolution of populism in Portugal, challenging the notion of “Portuguese exceptionalism”. By examining political parties, the role of the media, and individual attitudes, the articles in this special issue reveal that populist attitudes and discourses have long existed in Portugal, albeit without electoral success until the radical right party Chega entered parliament in 2019. The contributions analyse historical populist figures, the intersection of populism with religious sentiments, and the impact of recent crises, such as the Covid-19 pandemic, on populist rhetoric. Despite being under-researched, the Portuguese case offers critical insights into the interplay of demand- and supply-side factors in the rise of populism. While more research is needed on specific aspects, this special issue paves the way for future studies on populism in Portugal and comparative analyses.