Issue A return to tribalism and the politicisation of group conflict

Summary

Tribalism refers to intense loyalty to one's own tribe or political and social group, typically accompanied by an us-versus-them mindset that turns into hostility toward outsiders. The survey observes rising group identification and exclusion along ideological, identity and cultural lines, with conflicts over race, gender, generation, religion and environment moving into party politics. Diversity, equity and inclusion principles spread widely in Western policy and popular culture, but backlash centred on immigration is now challenging them. Groups that see globalism and multiculturalism as threats to their identity and economic interests are becoming a political force, while entrenched low growth sharpens contests over scarce resources. The panel cites anti-immigrant political coalitions in Europe and the US, generational clashes over pensions and welfare, and gender conflict becoming an axis of party rivalry as challenges to democratic institutions.