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Date
Tuesday, 27 October 2026
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Time
19:00 - 22:00 (GMT +01:00)
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Location
Erasmus Paviljoen
At a time of geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty and growing social division, strongman politics is gaining renewed influence. Across democracies, leaders who project authority, certainty and defiance are attracting support by presenting simple solutions to complex challenges.
This event examines why populist and hardline political figures resonate so strongly today, and what their rise means for democratic institutions, public debate and the future of Europe. We will look beyond individual leaders such asTrump, Putin and Netanyah, to explore the wider conditions that allow this style of politics to thrive.
The discussion with Charles Groenhuijsen will examine how traditional and social media, conspiracy narratives, polarisation and online communities such as the Manosphere shape political attitudes. Prof. Dr. Taco H. Reus will join us to explore the evolving relationship between politics and business, and what navigating this rapidly changing global environment means for corporate strategy. Additionally, we will dive into how division can be cultivated, who benefits from it, and whether democracies can remain resilient while addressing citizens’ genuine concerns.
A part of the discussion, America: Democracy’s Stress Test, will address the changing meaning of the American Dream, the continuing influence of the MAGA movement and the direction of US politics in the years ahead.
Join fellow alumni, students, corporate guests, and our faculty and staff for an engaging and timely conversation on one of the defining political challenges of our time.
