What is centrism?

Centrism is a political approach that sits between the left and the right. Centrists favour moderate, practical policies and compromise over ideology. They usually support a market economy with decent public services, and gradual change rather than radical reform. In the UK, many voters describe themselves as centrist.

Centrists often judge policies by evidence and results rather than by which side they come from. They tend to back free trade, fiscal responsibility, and a welfare state that is funded but not too large. The 'Third Way' of the 1990s and 2000s was a well-known centrist movement. In the UK, the Liberal Democrats often describe themselves as centrist. Both Labour and the Conservatives have centrist wings. Supporters say centrism builds broad support and avoids extremes. Critics on the left say it protects an unfair status quo. Critics on the right say it lacks conviction. Some argue the centre itself moves over time as public opinion shifts. Centrist voters are often key in close elections, because they can switch between parties. Parties chasing them often move towards the middle ground.