Populists in Power [Hardcover]

The main area of sustained populist growth in recent decades has been Western Europe, where populist parties have not only endured longer than expected, but have increasingly begun to enter government. Focusing on three high-profile cases in Italy and Switzerland  the Popolo della Libert? (PDL), Lega Nord (LN) and Schweizerische Volkspartei (SVP)  Populists in Poweris the first in-depth comparative study to examine whether these parties are indeed doomed to failure in office as many commentators have claimed.

Albertazzi and McDonnells findings run contrary to much of the received wisdom. Based on extensive original research and fieldwork, they show that populist parties can be built to last, can achieve key policy victories and can survive the experience of government, without losing the support of either the voters or those within their parties.

Contributing a new perspective to studies in populist politics, Populists in Poweris essential reading for undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as scholars interested in modern government, parties and politics.

1. Populists in Western Europe: From Periphery to Power  2. Forza Italia and the Popolo della Libert?  3. The Lega Nord  4. The Schweizerische Volkspartei   5.Elections   6. Pledges vs. Actions in Government   7. Members and Representatives - Reactions to Government Participation   8. Conclusions: Populists and Power   Appendix 1. Summary of Relevant Political Events in Italy, 2008-2011   Appendix 2. Summary of Relevant Political Events: Switzerland 2003-2007   Index

As populist parties increasingly enter government coalitions we need solid academic research rather than received wisdom. Populists in Power is the first tlC�