Politics
The Far-Right on the Rise: A Look at Political Shifts Across Europe
Election results across the continent signal a sharp rightward turn. We analyze the causes and consequences of the far-right’s growing influence in European politics.
From Italy and Sweden to France and Germany, far-right and right-wing populist parties are gaining significant ground. This political shift is reshaping the European landscape, challenging the dominance of traditional centrist parties and causing alarm among proponents of liberal democracy.
The drivers of this rise are complex and vary by country, but common themes emerge. Widespread anxiety over immigration and national identity, economic insecurity fueled by inflation and globalization, and a deep-seated distrust of established political elites and institutions are powerful catalysts.
These parties have also successfully modernized their image, often moving away from overt extremism to focus on culturally conservative values, law and order, and national sovereignty. Their strong presence on social media allows them to bypass traditional media and speak directly to disaffected voters.
The implications for the European Union are profound. A stronger far-right bloc in the European Parliament could obstruct policies on climate, migration, and further integration. This trend is the defining political battle of the decade, forcing a re-examination of the post-war European project.
