The article delves into the growing trend of political populism in Western liberal democracies, particularly in Slovakia, over the past two decades. This rise is often perceived as a threat to democracy and a precursor to new authoritarianism. However, the situation is more complex, as supporters of populist parties generally do not oppose liberal democracy per se, as they tend to acknowledge the importance of free elections and civil rights while expressing dissatisfaction with the current political landscape.

Many voters supporting populist alternatives feel that the established political systems and ideologies, developed in the 1960s and 1970s, no longer address crucial aspects of contemporary society and fail to reflect the societal, economic, and political changes they encounter in their daily lives. Moreover, these voters harbor feelings of being overlooked or threatened by the political elite, prompting them to gravitate towards populist leaders who they believe can adequately address their concerns and demands for change.

The article raises questions about the future of democracy in light of these populist movements, urging readers to consider the deeper implications of such political shifts. It suggests that while populism might threaten traditional democratic structures, the underlying causes of its appeal signal broader discontent within society that requires attention and understanding, rather than outright rejection of populist sentiments as mere antidemocratic forces.