Lawfare

About the rise of right-wing populism

In recent years, the rise of right-wing populism has dramatically reshaped the political and legal landscapes in Europe and the United States, sparking a widespread backlash against democratic norms and human rights. While much of the discourse has centered on populist leaders and governments, these political forces are not acting in isolation. They have forged strategic alliances with conservative lawyers and legal NGOs to reinterpret and reshape the rule of law in ways that serve their political objectives. The judicial decisions restricting abortion rights by the US Supreme Court and the Polish Constitutional Court are primary illustrations of this right-wing vision for fundamental rights. This roundtable delves into the legal and political strategies deployed by the right-wing non-state actors to challenge democratic principles and consolidate power.