Why Populists Are Winning

Populism is winning. Can it be stopped? From Trump to Le Pen, from Brexit to AfD, populists are rewriting the rules of politics, stoking division and promising a return to ‘common sense’ leadership. Their message electrifies millions who feel left behind, unheard and fearful of the future.

But behind the slogans lies a dangerous truth: populism isn’t the solution – it’s the road to ruin. So how do we fight back? In this urgent and provocative book, Liam Byrne dissects the five core tactics of the populist playbook and lays out a bold strategy to defeat them. Drawing on cutting-edge research from across the UK, US, France and Germany – including brand new studies of populist voters – he reveals why simply shouting louder won’t work.

Instead, mainstream politics must evolve, channelling the rage that fuels populism into a revitalised Radical Centre. By drawing connections between growing inequality and the populists’ clarion call for a ‘revolt against elites’, Byrne unveils the uncomfortable answers behind – and transformative strategies to tackle – the defining crises of our time. Smart, sharp and packed with real-world solutions, WHY POPULISTS ARE WINNING is a call to action for anyone who refuses to surrender the future to fear.