2024: Far-right populism redefines global politics

Donald Trump secured a controversial victory over Kamala Harris in the U.S. presidential election, promising to restore “America First” policies. His campaign leaned heavily on anti-immigration rhetoric and conservative values, further fragmenting the American electorate.

In Europe, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán reinforced his anti-immigration stance, while Marine Le Pen in France pushed for cultural isolationism, positioning herself as a defender of French identity amid economic challenges.

In Latin America, figures like Argentina’s Javier Milei and Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro exemplified the far-right’s influence. Milei’s economic reforms, including dollarisation, sparked widespread protests, while Bolsonaro, despite no longer holding office, continued to galvanise supporters with conservative rhetoric and attacks on democratic institutions.

In Mozambique, Venâncio Mondlane emerged as a key figure in the global wave of far-right populism. His party, PODEMOS, gained traction among rural workers and unemployed youth with emotionally charged campaigns promising change.

Critics, however, argue that Mondlane’s rhetoric oversimplifies complex issues and exploits public discontent without offering substantive solutions.

Protests erupted in major cities like Maputo and Beira, with demonstrators divided between supporters who view Mondlane as a voice for the marginalised and opponents who accuse him of manipulating the electorate with populist tactics.

Digital platforms played a pivotal role in the resurgence of far-right populism. In the United States, Trump dominated X (formerly Twitter), using targeted messaging to energise his base and amplify polarising narratives. Similarly, Bolsonaro’s allies in Brazil relied on WhatsApp and Telegram to disseminate conspiracy theories and alarmist content, particularly among rural and evangelical communities.

In Mozambique, Mondlane utilised local radio stations and social media to extend his reach to remote areas. While these strategies helped him connect with disenfranchised voters, they also exacerbated misinformation and mistrust in traditional institutions.

The political upheaval of 2024 triggered widespread demonstrations. In the United States, Trump’s re-election sparked mass protests in cities like New York and San Francisco, where millions marched for women’s rights, climate action, and minority protections. Meanwhile, pro-Trump rallies in conservative states celebrated his return to power.

In Brazil, Bolsonaro’s supporters staged marches against the Supreme Court, demanding military intervention, while progressive groups rallied against the former president’s rhetoric, accusing him of undermining democracy and environmental protections.

Mozambique saw similar tensions, as protests revealed the stark divide between Mondlane’s supporters and detractors. His populist messaging has raised concerns about the deepening rift within Mozambican society.

The rise of far-right populism in 2024 underscores the fragility of democratic institutions. By exploiting social insecurities and leveraging technological tools, populist leaders have successfully mobilised discontent while eroding public trust in traditional governance.

However, resistance movements have emerged. In countries like France, the United States, and Brazil, progressive coalitions have rallied for equality, justice, and sustainability. Analysts warn that addressing systemic issues—such as economic inequality and climate change—will be crucial to countering the far-right’s appeal.

As the dust settles on 2024, the global political landscape remains deeply divided. The next chapter will depend on how governments and societies respond to the challenges posed by populist narratives, with the future of democracy hanging in the balance.