Populism has been on the rise in Asia in recent years, with leaders across the region tapping into nationalist sentiment to bolster their political support. From India to the Philippines, Thailand to Japan, populist leaders are finding success by appealing to people’s deep-seated beliefs in the importance of their nation and its values.
One of the key drivers of this rise in populism is the growing sense of economic anxiety and cultural displacement felt by many in Asia. Globalization has brought economic growth and development to many countries in the region, but it has also led to job losses, growing inequality, and the erosion of traditional cultures and ways of life. In response, populist leaders have tapped into this anxiety by promising to protect their nation’s economy, culture, and identity from outside threats.
In India, for example, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has successfully tapped into Hindu nationalist sentiment to consolidate his power. Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has promoted a vision of India as a Hindu nation, appealing to the majority Hindu population’s sense of pride and identity. By portraying himself as a strong leader who can protect India from internal and external threats, Modi has won the support of many voters who feel marginalized and left behind by India’s rapid economic development.
Likewise, in the Philippines, President Rodrigo Duterte has capitalized on a similar sense of frustration and anger among the country’s population. Duterte’s tough stance on crime and his anti-elitist rhetoric have resonated with many Filipinos who feel disillusioned with the country’s political establishment. By portraying himself as a populist outsider who is unafraid to shake up the status quo, Duterte has been able to build a strong base of support among a diverse range of voters.
In Thailand, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has also harnessed nationalist sentiment to stay in power. After seizing power in a military coup in 2014, Prayuth has used his position to promote a vision of Thailand as a strong and prosperous nation, free from the corruption and chaos that plagued the country’s politics for years. By positioning himself as a savior of the nation, Prayuth has been able to maintain his grip on power despite widespread criticism from human rights groups and democratic activists.
In Japan, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has similarly tapped into nationalist sentiment to bolster his political support. Abe’s government has promoted a vision of Japan as a powerful and independent nation, capable of standing up to its rivals in the region and around the world. By emphasizing Japan’s unique culture, traditions, and values, Abe has been able to rally public support for his conservative policies and agenda.
This rise of populism in Asia is not without its dangers, however. Populist leaders often seek to consolidate their power by demonizing political opponents, suppressing dissent, and undermining democratic institutions. In countries like the Philippines and Thailand, human rights abuses and attacks on freedom of speech have become increasingly common under populist rule.
Moreover, the focus on nationalism and identity politics can often exacerbate divisions within society, pitting different ethnic, religious, and cultural groups against each other. In countries like India, where tensions between Hindus and Muslims have long simmered, the rise of Hindu nationalism under Modi’s leadership has led to increased violence and discrimination against minority communities.
Despite these risks, the appeal of populism in Asia shows no signs of waning. As long as people feel uncertain about their economic future and anxious about their cultural identity, populist leaders will continue to find fertile ground for their message of nationalism and protectionism.
To combat the rise of populism, it is imperative for civil society groups, political parties, and ordinary citizens to stand up against hate speech, discrimination, and attacks on democracy. By promoting dialogue, understanding, and respect for diversity, we can build a more inclusive and resilient society that is immune to the divisive tactics of populist leaders.
In conclusion, the rise of populism in Asia is a complex phenomenon driven by a mix of economic, cultural, and political factors. By tapping into nationalist sentiment, populist leaders are able to garner support from those who feel marginalized and left behind by the forces of globalization. While this trend poses significant challenges to democracy and social cohesion, it also presents an opportunity for us to come together and build a more inclusive and equitable society for all. Let’s rise to the occasion and stand against the divisive forces of populism, for the future of our region depends on it.