Right wing populist opposition in the Western Europe during COVID-19: Germany and France

The goal of the article is to provide an analysis of the impact of populists' crisis performance on their political success, with a particular focus on whether they experience an increase in popularity, manage to polarize public opinion effectively, and succeed in sustaining the crisis even as its immediate effects diminish. We assess the initial responses of populist leaders to what was initially an externally induced event, and delve into how their subsequent actions over time influence the crisis dynamics, transforming them into internal elements within the broader context of crisis politics during the COVID-19 pandemic. This analysis aims to illuminate the strategies and methodologies employed by right-wing populist parties in Germany and France as they navigated the challenges presented by the pandemic. By focusing on the «Alternative for Germany» (AfD) and the «National Rally» (RN), we examine their rhetoric, actions, and adaptations in response to the evolving crisis. The pandemic presented a unique opportunity for these parties to capitalize on public fear and uncertainty. The findings presented in this article contribute to a broader understanding of how populist parties exploit crises to advance their political goals. By analyzing their performance during the COVID-19 pandemic, we gain insights into their potential to reshape political norms and influence future electoral outcomes in Germany and France.