Divisions may limit rise of Europe's populist parties

Subject

Divisions between populist parties.

Significance

Populist parties are having a growing impact on politics in Europe, partly through their success in elections, partly through the impact this success has had on centrist parties. Growing opposition to particular EU policies and the EU itself is perhaps the area where this impact has been most clearly evident -- but so far only in Greece has this led to an existential challenge to the relationship with a member state.

Impacts

• Portugal has endured a bailout and ongoing austerity, but almost 80% of voters support one of the four traditional parties.
• Despite close links, Spain's Podemos has shifted its rhetoric about Greece's Syriza since the latter's January election victory.
• UKIP will probably not increase its representation in the House of Commons (currently two members of parliament).