My academic journey began in Leiden, where I studied political science. Upon completing my PhD, I left the Netherlands due to limited career opportunities. My career path has since taken me to various academic institutions, including the Central European University in Budapest, the University of Edinburgh, and the University of Antwerp, before settling in the United States, where I have worked for over a decade. Each country offered unique perspectives, shaping my understanding of political systems and extremism.

Living and working in different countries has deepened my insight into national biases. For example, my time in Eastern Europe highlighted the distinctiveness of Western European perspectives. In Scotland, I observed how Britons perceive themselves as separate from Europe. In the United States, the vast political and cultural differences compared to Europe became clear. While these experiences have influenced my broader outlook, my foundational perspective remains deeply rooted in my Dutch upbringing and training.

Far-right movements manifest differently across Europe and North America. In Europe, these movements often intertwine with nationalism and Euroscepticism, while in North America, they are more individualistic and culturally driven. The global recession and the rise of leaders like President Donald Trump further spotlighted these differences, as populism became a term to capture broad, radical dissent without aligning with specific political ideologies.

Democracies today face the dual challenge of defending liberal values while resisting authoritarian tendencies. Key issues include the rise of populist rhetoric, which undermines trust in institutions, and the influence of digital platforms that amplify misinformation. The struggle lies in maintaining democratic principles without resorting to illiberal measures to counter these threats.

The digital era has significantly impacted far-right strategies, offering these movements a global platform for recruitment and propaganda. While the academic study of far-right politics has long been established, the internet’s role in amplifying their reach has drawn more public attention. Social media enables rapid dissemination of ideas and facilitates the creation of echo chambers, complicating efforts to counteract extremist ideologies.

Populism’s global appeal stems from its perceived neutrality compared to terms like “extreme right” or “radical left.” The concept resonates in various political contexts, from Europe’s nationalist movements to Latin America’s leftist regimes. However, misconceptions persist, particularly the assumption that populism inherently opposes democracy. In reality, it often reflects dissatisfaction with traditional political elites rather than democratic principles themselves.

When teaching subjects like democratic erosion and far-right politics, I emphasize the importance of critical thinking. Students must understand that complex issues rarely have simple solutions. Encouraging them to question assumptions, including my own, fosters a more nuanced understanding of global political dynamics. American students, for instance, often struggle with contextualizing international politics, which I address by challenging them to engage with perspectives beyond their own.

Academics have a role in bridging the gap between research and public understanding. However, the media’s commercial focus often reduces scholarly contributions to infotainment. While public engagement is essential, the growing gap between specialized academic research and generalist journalism poses challenges. Academics must navigate these dynamics carefully to ensure their contributions remain impactful and accurate.

My advice to students is to pursue topics they are genuinely passionate about. Avoid chasing academic trends or “hype” topics, as their relevance may fade by the time research is complete. Focus on building a strong foundation in critical thinking and adaptability, as these skills will remain invaluable throughout any career.