Unit 40: Populism, Nationalism & Democratic Erosion

Part 1 — Word formation

Instructions: Read the text below. Use the word in CAPITALS at the end of some of the lines to form a word that fits in the gap in the same line.

The rise of populist movements across Europe has led to a significant _ of traditional political norms. While some voters see these leaders as champions of the people, others fear the _ of democratic institutions. This shift is often driven by a sense of ____ among those who feel left behind by globalisation.

The _ of nationalist rhetoric can often lead to social division. Furthermore, the _ of political discourse has made compromise increasingly difficult. Some analysts argue that the _ of checks and balances is a direct result of executive overreach. Ultimately, the _ of democratic values remains a central concern for international observers.

1. ____ (REVOLUTION)
2. ____ (WEAKEN)
3. ____ (DISENFRANCHISE)
4. ____ (INTENSE)
5. ____ (POLARISATION)
6. ____ (EROSION)
7. ____ (UNDERMINE)
8. ____ (DEGRADE)

Part 2 — Key word transformations

Instructions: Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between three and five words, including the word given. 1. Although the leader's rhetoric was controversial, he managed to win the election. | FOCUS The election victory was achieved, _ the leader's controversial rhetoric. → ______ 2. It was only when the new laws were passed that the people realised the danger to democracy. | POINT At _ the people realised how much democracy was at risk. → ________ 3. I didn't realise how much the political climate had changed until I spoke to him. | LITTLE _______ change in the political climate had occurred. → ______ 4. The sudden rise of nationalism surprised many political analysts. | WAS ______ many political analysts. → ______ 5. We didn't know that the democratic institutions were being undermined until it was too late. | HAD Little ______ that democratic institutions were being undermined. → ______ 6. It was the lack of transparency that caused the loss of public trust. | RESULTED The loss of public trust ______ lack of transparency. → _________

Answer key

Part 1 1. revolution 2. weakening 3. disenfranchisement 4. intensity 5. polarisation 6. erosion 7. undermining 8. degradation Part 2 1. despite the focus on 2. that point in time 3. Little did I know 4. What surprised many was 5. did we know 6. resulted from the