The Impact of Populism on Democratic Institutions: A Comparative Analysis

Populism has become a defining political phenomenon in the 21st century, shaping democratic institutions worldwide. This paper explores the impact of populist movements on democratic governance, focusing on case studies from Europe, Latin America, and the United States. By examining the mechanisms through which populist leaders consolidate power, weaken checks and balances, and challenge traditional party systems, this study highlights the implications for democratic resilience. The analysis draws from contemporary political science literature, employing a comparative approach to assess variations in populist influence across different political systems. The findings suggest that while populism can serve as a corrective to elite-driven politics, it also poses significant risks to democratic norms and institutions. Received: 5 January 2025 / Accepted: 7 March 2025 / Published: 25 March 2025