For a Left Populism

What is the `populist moment` and what does it mean for the left? We are currently witnessing in Western Europe a `populist moment` that signals the crisis of neoliberal hegemony. The central axis of the political conflict will be between right- and left-wing populism. By establishing a frontier between `the people` and `the oligarchy,` a left-populist strategy could bring together the manifold struggles against subordination, oppression and discrimination. This strategy acknowledges that democratic discourse plays a crucial role in the political imaginary of our societies. And through the construction of a collective will, mobilizing common affects in defence of equality and social justice, it will be possible to combat the xenophobic policies promoted by right-wing populism. In redrawing political frontiers, this `populist moment` points to a `return of the political` after years of postpolitics. A return may open the way for authoritarian solutions--through regimes that weaken liberal-democratic institutions--but it could also lead to a reaffirmation and extension of democratic values.