The Tribalization of Europe

The Tribalization of Europe addresses the global megatrend of tribalization observed in today's world. Instances like the election of Donald Trump, the Brexit vote, and populist movements such as Catalan separatism, along with democratic backsliding in Central and Eastern Europe, exemplify this trend. Fuelled by anti-globalism and identity politics, tribalization draws up the drawbridge to the world, putting cultural differences before dialogue, collaboration, and universal liberal values.

Tribalism represents a perilous path. With it, asserts Marlene Wind, democracy itself is in jeopardy. Tribalism extends beyond being merely pro-nation, anti-EU, and anti-global; in many cases, it is a more significant and fundamental movement that discards the liberal democratic principles we once shared.

In an era where former defenders of liberal values grow increasingly silent or even join the expanding chorus of tribalists, this book serves as a wakeup call. Wind draws on a diverse range of examples from the UK, US, Spain, Hungary, and Poland to illustrate the dangers of identity politics and calls upon individuals to actively stand up for democracy and the rule of law.