Threatening inequality and far-right support in Europe: the worsening condition of the poor and widespread fears of decline

In recent decades, rising income inequality and growing support for far-right parties have become defining trends across Europe. Although the relationship between these phenomena has attracted some scholarly attention, the evidence remains complex and often contradictory. This study advances the debate by analyzing how both distribution between income groups and individuals' positions within the income hierarchy shape far-right support. By analysing the interaction of national income shares, individual income, and income perceptions across over 30 European countries, the article demonstrates that a declining national income share of the lowest quartile (the poorest 25%) is associated with both an increase in far-right vote share at the aggregate level (1980–2020) and a greater likelihood of individual far-right support (2002–2020). Multilevel analysis suggest that this trend is particularly pronounced among the mid-lower income group and the lowest income group with moderate income perceptions. The findings highlight how deteriorating economic conditions of the disadvantaged fuel anxieties and fears of social decline, driving support for far-right parties across different income groups – especially among those who, despite having little, feel they have something to lose.