Mediterranean Populism: Local Identities in a Globalizing Region Introduction: Populism as a Reaction to Unification Mediterranean populism is a complex of intellectual, cultural, and political currents advocating for the uniqueness of local identities, traditions, and ecological practices in the Mediterranean in the face of globalization, standardization, and mass tourism. It is not a single ideology but rather a family of discourses emerging in different points of the region — from Catalonia and Provence to Greece, Italy, and Croatia. At its core lies the assertion of the value of place (genius loci), the deep historical connection of the people with a specific landscape, climate, agricultural and craft practices. Historical and Philosophical Roots The ideological origins can be found in 19th-century European romanticism with its interest in folk culture, language, and local history. However, modern Mediterranean populism formed in the second half of the 20th century as a reaction to three challenges: Economic modernization and depopulation of rural areas (the "exodus from the countryside"). Mass tourism, turning historical cities and coasts into a commodity devoid of authenticity. European integration, perceived by part of the local elites as a threat to cultural diversity and agricultural traditions (through EU standards). Important roles were played by thinkers developing a critique of modernity and utopias of progress: from the Algerian-French essayist Albert Camus, who celebrated the light and nature of the Mediterranean, to the Italian economist Sergio Salvi, advocating for the value of rural economy. Key Directions and Manifestations 2. Linguistic regionalism.The protection of local languages and dialects (Occitan in Provence, Catalan, Sardinian, Sicilian, Galician), which are considered as repositories of a unique worldview and cultural code. This is not always separatism but often a demand for cultural autonomy and recognition. 4. Architectural an ... Read more