Political realignment and democratic setbacks: The rightward shift in India, the USA, and Italy

Abstract

This research examines the rise of right-wing political forces in India, the United States, and Italy during the 21st century, emphasizing the leadership paradigms of Narendra Modi, Donald Trump, and Giorgia Meloni. It scrutinizes how nationalism, identity-driven rhetoric, and populist discourse exacerbated by socio-economic volatility, shifting cultural norms, and adept media manipulation have propelled right-wing ascendancy. Despite disparate historical contexts, converging patterns emerge: erosion of democratic norms, societal polarization, and the elevation of majoritarian identities. Utilizing a comparative case study framework, this study reveals the globalized dimensions and democratic implications of contemporary right-wing political reconfigurations.