Radical-right youth groups are at the root of Europe’s populist surge | Cas Mudde and Duncan McDonnell

The youth wings of populist radical right parties in Western Europe play a crucial role in shaping future leaders and expanding party influence. Leaders like Matteo Salvini and Giorgia Meloni credit their youth activism for their political growth. Research shows these organizations recruit and train members, fostering international ties and professional skills. They attract university-educated youth, enhancing the parties' public image while maintaining exclusionary ideologies. Mainstream parties must address youth concerns and reform their own youth wings to regain influence. The radical right's rise poses a significant challenge to liberal democracy.