Fascist or Authoritarian? The Dark Shift in Tory Politics

The Conservative Party’s recent trajectory has raised questions about whether it’s drifting into a more authoritarian direction, some even use the term "fascist." But what exactly does that mean, and why might these accusations resonate with many, particularly younger Brits?

Figures like Braverman, Sunak, and Badenoch are notable for their recent rhetoric, focusing on law and order, immigration, and “anti-woke” agendas. Their statements often seem tailored to address a perceived threat to British identity. Braverman's harsh immigration policies and Badenoch's critiques of diversity programs suggest an attempt to redefine what it means to be British, one based on traditionalism and perceived national strength rather than inclusivity.

The Tories' approach to protest rights, seen in legislation like the Public Order Act, adds another layer to the conversation. Designed to crack down on protests that cause “serious disruption,” it essentially limits public dissent and is often perceived as targeting youth-led environmental movements like Extinction Rebellion. The act has raised fears of a government trying to suppress democratic expression rather than engage with public opinion on urgent issues like climate change and inequality​​.

While "fascism" is a strong word, the Conservative Party’s current approach shares some characteristics with what scholars call “authoritarian populism.” Authoritarian populists often claim to defend a “silent majority” against perceived threats from outsiders or “elites.” This narrative resonates with the Tories’ emphasis on protecting traditional British values from what they call "leftist" influences, be it through criticism of the European Convention on Human Rights or by emphasizing national sovereignty.

Their stance on culture wars is key here. By framing progressive movements as attacks on British traditions, they tap into nostalgia and generate fear of cultural decline, aiming to consolidate power among voters who feel disillusioned or left out by recent social changes. For young people, however, these "cultural threats" are the very advancements they wish to see, like progress on climate action, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial equality​​​​.

British teens are growing up in a world that values diversity, inclusion, and environmental responsibility, which directly contrasts with the Tories' positions. Young people see themselves as global citizens, often more progressive and open-minded than previous generations. They’re also the ones facing the realities of climate change and economic challenges, issues that require forward-thinking policies rather than nostalgic visions of the past.

This generational clash explains why so many young Brits feel alienated by the Conservatives. When they look at the current government, they see an administration that doesn’t represent their priorities or listen to their voices. Instead of engaging with youth-led demands for change, the Tories seem more focused on preserving an idealized version of Britain that’s out of touch with modern realities.

Farage’s influence on the Conservative Party can’t be ignored. His anti-EU rhetoric and strong nationalist stance paved the way for Brexit and a shift in the Tory base, moving them closer to a populist, anti-establishment message. Farage’s popularity among certain voter segments, particularly older and rural voters, illustrated a political opportunity for the Conservatives: embracing a nationalist, anti-progressive agenda to rally support.

Farage represents a broader trend of divisive, populist politics that has seeped into the Conservative Party, where maintaining power is now more about stoking cultural divisions than finding common ground. The Tories’ adoption of these themes has made figures like Farage not just influential but instrumental in shaping this new, harder stance within British politics​​.

In a landscape where young people are increasingly politically aware and activist-minded, the Conservatives' drift toward authoritarian populism threatens to deepen a generational divide. British teens are left to wonder about their place in a nation that seems to be turning its back on progress and diversity. For many, this moment marks a call to action. The question is, as the gap between generations widens, how will Britain’s youth respond?