Cases of "pathlogical normalization"

AfD in Germany and FPÖ in Austria

Abstract

This article examines the development of the AfD in Germany and the FPÖ in Austria against the backdrop of Cas Mudde's concept of “pathological normalcy.” While a large number of right-wing populist parties in Western Europe are showing signs of deradicalization in various forms, the developments of the AfD and the FPÖ run counter to this trend. Using a structured focused comparison, this analysis shows that the AfD and the FPÖ are undergoing a process of steady radicalization on the supply side while at the same time being normalized by voters and, in some cases, established political parties on the demand side. Thus, both parties represent the concept of “pathological normalcy” in an ideal-typical way.

Key words: Right-Wing Populism; AfD; FPÖ; Radicalization; Normalization.