Mapping the diversity in the support for the far-right in Latin America

This project investigates the diversity of support for the far right, using survey data and latent variable strategies to identify distinct groups of far-right supporters. It begins with an analysis of Chilean data, examining how support varies across socio-demographic groups, ideological positions, and attitudes toward democracy, immigration, and authoritarianism. Chile presents a unique case given its history of dictatorship, recent political unrest, and evolving partisan landscape, providing a critical foundation for understanding far-right dynamics in post- authoritarian democracies.

The project is linked with a larger comparative study of seven countries, encompassing diverse political and economic contexts in Latin America, Europe, and North America. The cross-national approach will allow for an assessment of whether far-right support is structured by common global patterns or shaped by country-specific factors. Key questions include: What distinct subgroups exist within far-right support bases? Do economic insecurity, cultural anxieties, and political distrust drive different factions? How do generational and educational divides influence support for far-right movements and parties?

Using latent class analysis, the study will move beyond traditional left-right ideological divides to uncover heterogeneous segments of far-right supporters, distinguishing between inductive groups of voters. By applying this data-driven classification, the project will contribute to a more nuanced understanding of who supports the far right, why, and under what conditions.

The Research Assistant (RA) will support the first phase of the project, focusing on data analysis, manuscript preparation, and survey design.

Their primary task will be to analyse survey data from Chile using latent class analysis (LCA) or a similar strategy to identify distinct supporter groups based on demographic, economic, and attitudinal variables. They will conduct descriptive analyses, validate classifications, and interpret key findings.

The RA will also contribute to drafting the initial research paper, particularly sections on methodology, results, and discussion, and assist in refining the literature review. The paper and subsequent research will be presented in international conferences and workshops, and the RA will be welcomed to join as a co-author to those events.

By the end of three months, the RA is expected to:

• Complete analysis of Chilean data and summarise findings.
• Contribute to a working draft of the first research paper.
• Provide input on survey design for the cross-country study.

Hands-on Experience with Data Analysis:

• Gain practical skills in latent variable techniques and survey data analysis.
• Work with real-world datasets, applying quantitative methods to understand far-right support.

Academic Writing and Research Development

• Contribute to a working research paper on Chile, with the opportunity for co-authorship.
• Improve skills in summarising results, structuring arguments, and engaging with the relevant literature.
• Engage with a network of senior scholars working on the study of the far-right and populism.

Survey Design and Methodology

• Participate in the design of a cross-national survey, learning about question development, measurement issues, and comparability across countries.
• Understand best practices in survey research and political behaviour studies.

Professional and Research Skills

• Develop skills in data interpretation, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
• Gain exposure to collaborative research processes, working closely with an experienced researcher.
• Contribute to the presentation of research findings at conferences and academic workshops.

1. Basic experience with survey data analysis and statistical techniques is essential.
2. Familiarity with latent class analysis (LCA) or similar techniques is preferred but not required.
3. Skilled in R (RStudio) for data analysis. Other software can be used, but R is preferred.
4. Strong writing skills for summarising findings and engaging with literature.
5. Understanding of voter behaviour, far-right politics, and survey design are desirable.
6. Ability to work independently.
7. Willingness to contribute ideas for survey design and research discussions with a larger group of international scholars.
8. Enthusiasm for presenting research at conferences and workshops.

he Research Assistant will have multiple opportunities to disseminate their experience from this internship. They will be eligible for co-authorship on the Chilean research paper, contributing to an academic publication. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to present findings at conferences and workshops, gaining experience in academic dissemination. The RA is also encouraged to use the work for posters, blog posts, or research reports, helping to communicate insights beyond academia. These dissemination activities will enhance their research profile, providing valuable experience in both scholarly and public-facing engagement.

1. Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and suitability to the project supervisor(s). Please contact the project supervisor(s) in advance of submitting the application with any questions.

2. If selected by the project supervisor

• LISS DTP students must then complete the LISS DTP Placement /Internship Application form. This ensures that there is approval of PhD supervisor, and the necessary information is obtained to extend funding (for DTP1 students) or confirm placement requirement fulfilled (for DTP2 students), and to fulfil ESRC reporting obligations. LISS DTP approval must be given before the RA internship can commence.
• Other ESRC-funded DTP students should follow the internship application processes from their home DTP.

Please note for LISS DTP students:

• Research Assistant Internships must not be undertaken with the student’s current supervisor and/or home department.
• DTP1 students (those whose funding commenced before Oct24): a maximum of 4 Research Assistant internships will be funded. These will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the 4 DTP1 places are filled, we will inform PIs that only DTP2 students are eligible for the Research Assistant internships. PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL DTP1 PLACES HAVE NOW BEEN FILLED.
• DTP2 students (those whose funding commenced from Oct24): are required to complete a 3-month placement, which is funded through their studentship. No limits to number that can be funded.
• Reports: at the conclusion of the internship, the student will be required to complete an internship report, which will include a question for the internship host to feedback on the internship.

Contact liss-dtp@kcl.ac.uk with any questions.