Le Pen joins these 5 populist leaders facing lawfare around the world

Vice President JD Vance recently criticized European countries for what he perceives as a lack of commitment to democracy, particularly in their treatment of populist leaders. However, this issue goes beyond Europe, as populist leaders around the world are facing legal challenges ranging from election bans to criminal convictions.

Here are some of the top populist leaders currently under pressure:

1. Marine Le Pen, France:
Marine Le Pen, the right-wing leader of France’s National Rally party, was recently convicted of embezzlement along with several party members. She has also been banned from running in the 2027 presidential election. Many populist leaders across Europe have condemned this verdict, pointing to Le Pen’s significant lead in the polls.

2. Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil:
Brazil’s Supreme Court has accepted charges against former President Jair Bolsonaro over an alleged attempt to remain in office after his 2022 election defeat. The charges include accusations of a coup plot that involved poisoning his successor and killing a Supreme Court judge. Bolsonaro denies any wrongdoing but could face a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.

3. Calin Georgescu, Romania:
Calin Georgescu, who won the first round of Romania’s presidential elections, had the election annulled due to allegations of Russian collusion. He has been taken into custody and banned from running in the election despite leading in polls.

4. Matteo Salvini, Italy:
Italian Vice Premier Matteo Salvini faced legal troubles over allegations of illegally detaining migrants during his tenure as interior minister. The charges were dropped in December, with Salvini declaring it a victory for Italy.

5. Imran Khan, Pakistan:
Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was jailed on corruption charges last month, along with his wife. Khan maintains his innocence and describes the situation as a “witch hunt.” Trump ally Richard Grenell has called for Khan’s release.

6. Donald Trump, United States of America:
Former President Donald Trump has faced legal challenges throughout his political career, including discredited Russia collusion claims and impeachment proceedings. He was eventually convicted for falsifying business records, a verdict his allies dispute.

Populist leaders like Trump have acknowledged the challenges faced by their counterparts worldwide. It is clear that the legal troubles of these leaders are not limited to Europe but are a global phenomenon.