Austria and the Global Compact on Migration: the ‘populist securitization’ of foreign policy

Abstract Bridging arguments between securitization theory and populist communication, this article shifts attention to the strategy of ‘populist securitization’. It argues that parties may seek ‘securitize’ international political issues for purpose domestic mobilization. Empirically, it demonstrates relevance case Austria’s foreign policy on Global Compact Migration during coalition government (2017–2019) radical right Freedom Party (FPÖ) conservative People’s (ÖVP). The study GCM elucidates active interest like FPÖ take in shaping decisions are close their agenda. If successful, can have a profound sustained impact public perceptions create sense urgency about need an appropriate response. In doing so, becomes part game politics affect decisions.