Analyzing Populist Opposition to Gender+ Equality in the European Parliament

Analysing Populist Opposition to Gender+ Equality in the European Parliament

Type : Simulation / Role-play

Date : 13/05/2026

Course Lead : Professor Sophie Jacquot

Abstract

Under the supervision of Professor Sophie Jacquot, this exercise builds on academic research (notably Kantola & Lombardo, 2021) that analyzes and categorizes the strategies used by radical right populist (RRP) political groups in the European Parliament to oppose gender equality and anti-discrimination policies.

In this simulation, students are invited to adapt these theoretical categories through a practical role-play. Acting as Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), students must:

  • Select a recent parliamentary debate related to gender+ equality.
  • Embody the ideological specificities of specific political groups (Patriots, ESN, ECR) to ensure a realistic performance.
  • Develop a scenario simulating a parliamentary session, including the distribution of roles (RRP MEPs, opposing groups, and the Chair).

The objective is to explore how these discursive and political strategies are applied in practice within the European legislative arena.

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