Outernationalism: Transnational Influences and Far-Right Nationalism in Ireland.

This paper examines the growth and contradictions of far-right movements in Irelandthrough the dual lenses of nationalism and transnationalism. First, it explores how far-right movements that lay claim to Irish nationalism are influenced by transnational forces.We document how these movements leverage nationalist rhetoric and symbolism tomobilize support for and legitimise their ideologies. Evoking historical references andpatriotic slogans, groups seek to create a sense of belonging and ownership by fosteringa collective identity based on the exclusion of ‘non-national’ and ‘countercultural’ others.The authors emphasise the paradox of movements that seek legitimation throughrecourse to nationalism while relying on international rhetoric and support. Second, theauthors extend the critique to exclusionary nationalism itself. The concept of‘outernationalism’ is introduced to describe the influence of external forces on thedevelopment, more generally, of Irish national identity and nationalism. Tracing thisinfluence from the foundations of the State to the present day, the authors disrupt thetraditional view of nationalism as a purely internal phenomenon. Drawing on theories ofpopulism, colonialism, and political sociology, the paper challenges the notion - leveragedby the far right - of nationalism as a grassroots, homegrown movement. In conclusion,the authors assert the value of interrogating nationalism to expose the multitude ofexternal forces that shape it. In doing so, we uncover the contradictions inherent inexclusionary constructions of national identity. The concept of ‘outernationalism’ fostersa critical perspective on appeals to exclusionary nationalism, and provides a frameworkfor developing counter-narratives that emphasize the transnationality of nationalbelonging.