Global Relations Forum - Ankara Policy Center
Panel Meeting
"Countering Populist Movements: Addressing Current Political Trends"
September 29, 2023

On September 29, 2023, Prof. Sheri Berman, Professor of Political Science at Columbia University’s Barnard College and Prof. Evren Balta, Professor of International Relations at Özyeğin University, addressed Ankara Policy Center (APM), GRF and GRF Community members at a joint panel meeting, moderated by Prof. Ersin Kalaycıoğlu, Professor of Political Science at Sabancı University’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. In their speech entitled "Countering Populist Movements: Addressing Current Political Trends", the panelists examined the historical roots of populism, as well as its current state with regards to how it affects the US, Europe, and Turkey. Discussing how to best combat the influence of populism in eroding democratic institutions and processes, the panelists argued that modern populism exhibits electoral authoritarian tendencies, and the best way the counter its effects is the make political and social institutions more responsive and inclusive. Following their speeches, the panelists answered the participants’ questions.