As President Trump kicks off his second term, he’s riding a global wave of hard-line conservative populism, inspiring nationalist movements from Europe to other parts of the world. These groups share common ground—tough immigration policies, a push for “traditional” values, skepticism of climate regulations, and sharp criticism of mainstream politics. But while they may seem similar, their approaches and policies vary widely.
In Europe, parties like Germany’s AfD, Italy’s Brothers of Italy, France’s National Rally, and Austria’s Freedom Party have gained traction. Each has its own history and strategy, from softening their image to leaning into controversial rhetoric. For instance, the AfD has faced criticism for flirting with Nazi-era slogans, while Italy’s Brothers of Italy has tried to distance itself from its post-Fascist roots.
Trump, however, stands out for his fiery language and bold promises, like mass deportations of undocumented immigrants—a stance even some of his European admirers haven’t fully embraced. While these parties share a distrust of institutions like courts and independent media, their methods and intensity differ.
This global shift raises questions about the future of democracy and governance. As these movements grow, their impact on policies and societies worldwide will be worth watching. Whether they’ll unite or diverge further remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear: Trump’s influence is shaping the conversation far beyond U.S. borders.