The coronavirus pandemic has seen an increased role for experts and evidence in public discourse, as well as the persistence of conspiracy theories and ‘fake news’ regarding the origins, consequences and potential solutions for the virus. Meanwhile, fundamental freedoms including the right to travel, work and associate have been undermined by emergency measures, and the potential use of technology for contact tracing raises questions about state overreach. Indeed, some populists have used this period to strengthen their hold on power and their control over the citizenry, and this session will also explore the current state of populist politics in Europe since the onset of the pandemic.