Defying the stigma: radical right parties and extreme fringe groups in Western Europe

Thesis

In recent years, radical right parties (RRPs) in Western Europe have surged in electoral success, often achieving double-digit results and entered governing coalitions. Despite efforts to appear more moderate, all RRPs in the region engage—albeit to varying degrees—with far-right, anti-democratic fringe groups. Given the reputational risks of associating with these ostracised organisations, a key question arises: why do RRPs engage with fringe groups, and what determines the extent of these interactions? While theories from related fields address party-fringe group linkages, no holistic theory of this phenomenon exists, nor has a systematic comparative study yet been conducted. I argue that RRPs’ engagement with fringe groups is shaped by two factors: (1) the party’s organisational capacity and (2) the salience of immigration, which influences party leaders’ perception of reputational risks. To examine these dynamics, I conduct a comparative analysis of the German AfD and the French RN. Using process tracing and a broad range of primary and secondary sources, I identify the conditions and causal mechanisms that drive or constrain RRPs from engaging with fringe groups. This study stands out by applying theories of party organisation to these engagements and focusing on how RRPs calculate reputational costs. Understanding these interactions is crucial for filling gaps in the literature and deepening our knowledge of radical right party-movement linkages. As RRPs gain electoral ground, reshape political discourse, and amplify far-right claims, their engagement with fringe groups is among the most pressing political phenomena of our time. These interactions can influence policy agendas, bolster RRPs’ electoral prospects, and fuel political polarisation. A clearer understanding of how RRPs engage with far-right actors can inform more effective strategies to counter threats to democratic norms and stability while advancing research on radical right dynamics.

Authors: Schorlemer, L

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-qrrgpr761
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: radical right parties; party–movement linkages; party organisation; far-right movements
• Subjects: Political parties; Comparative politics; Far-right politics