The Rise of Far-Right Politics in the West and its Implications for India
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: International Relations (Global trends, Indian Diaspora, India-US relations, India-Europe relations).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 1 (Society): "Globalization and its effects on Indian society."
General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations): "Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests" (CORE TOPIC); "Indian diaspora."
General Studies Paper 4 (Ethics): Can be used as a case study for "tolerance," "pluralism," and the conflict between political expediency and democratic values.
Essay: High potential. Topics on Globalization, Nationalism, Democracy, India's role in the world.
Key Highlights from the News
Far-right ideas, which were previously marginal in Western democracies (Europe, US), are now becoming part of the mainstream political discourse.
Ethno-nationalism, nativism, and the strict application of "rule of law" are the main features of this new political trend.
In European countries like Italy, France, Germany, and Sweden, such parties are either coming to power or influencing the policies of mainstream parties.
Even when these parties are not in power, they are dragging the political centre rightward. Traditional parties are compelled to adopt tougher stances on issues like immigration.
In the US, the policies of Donald Trump (e.g., new H-1B visa fees) exemplify the introduction of these ideas into the government.
These changes directly affect India:
Concerns regarding the diaspora safety of the large Indian expatriate communities in countries like the UK and the US.
Changes in visa regimes for Indian students and professionals.
The increase in H-1B fees poses a significant financial burden on Indian IT companies.
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