A Far-Right Surge in European Parliamentary Elections: Insights and Implications for National Politics
The European Parliamentary elections of 2019 saw a significant surge in support for far-right political parties across Europe. This trend was particularly prominent in central and eastern European countries, where the Far Right gained over 30% of the votes in some instances. In
France
, for example, Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party secured over 23% of the votes, while in
Italy
, Matteo Salvini’s League Party obtained approximately 34%. In the
Czech Republic
, the Freedom and Direct Democracy party, led by Tomio Okamura, garnered over 15% of the votes. These results were not only a reflection of growing discontent among contact citizens but also a harbinger of potential political shifts at the national level.
Immigration and Euroskepticism, two major issues fueling the Far Right’s resurgence, played a crucial role in these election outcomes. The
immigration crisis
, particularly the ongoing refugee influx from the Middle East, has been a major point of contention for contact political parties. The Far Right’s stance against immigration and their promise to protect national borders resonated with voters, especially in countries that have been most affected by the crisis.
Euroskepticism, or the desire for greater national autonomy in European affairs, has also been a significant factor driving support for far-right parties. The European Union’s perceived lack of transparency and accountability, as well as its perceived inability to address the needs of its citizens, have fueled public discontent. Far-Right parties capitalized on this dissatisfaction by positioning themselves as champions of national sovereignty.
The
implications
of these election results for contact and national politics cannot be understated. The Far Right’s growing influence will likely lead to increased political polarization, as well as potential challenges to the European project itself. In
national politics
, far-right parties’ entry into governments or their roles as kingmakers could lead to significant policy shifts, particularly in areas related to immigration and European integration. It is essential that democratic institutions and leaders respond to this trend by addressing the underlying causes of public discontent, fostering dialogue, and promoting inclusive policies that can counter the Far Right’s appeal.
I. Introduction
The
European Parliamentary elections
, held every five years since 1979, are a significant event in the democratic process of the European Union (EU). These elections provide an opportunity for EU citizens to
elect their representatives
to the European Parliament, which plays a crucial role in
making laws and policies
that impact over 500 million people across Europe.
Prior to the
2019 elections
, there was a growing concern about the influence of far-right political parties in Europe. This trend had been on the rise since the late 1990s, with these parties gaining ground in various countries due to a range of factors including dissatisfaction with traditional political establishments, economic instability, and concerns over immigration.
Far-right political landscape prior to the elections
The
far-right political landscape
in Europe was characterized by parties that espoused anti-immigrant, nationalist, and sometimes xenophobic ideologies. Some of these parties had a long history in their respective countries, such as the link in France and the link in Austria. Others, like the link (AfD) in Germany and the link in the United Kingdom, had emerged more recently but had quickly gained significant support.
These parties often used provocative rhetoric and divisive tactics to appeal to their base. They capitalized on fears of immigration, crime, and economic instability, while dismissing the concerns of minorities and marginalized communities. Some even flirted with authoritarianism and anti-democratic values, raising concerns among EU leaders and human rights organizations.
Far-Right Parties’ Gains in the 2019 European Parliamentary Elections
Overview of far-right parties’ performance in various countries:
France: National Rally (RN) and the European Parliament election results
Marine Le Pen’s National Rally (RN), once known as the National Front, gained significant ground in the 2019 European Parliament elections. With a campaign focused on anti-immigration and Eurosceptic sentiments, RN secured 23.31% of the votes, making it France’s largest political force in the European Parliament.
Italy: League (Lega) and the Five Star Movement (M5S)
Italian far-right parties, specifically League (Lega) and the Five Star Movement (M5S), also had a noteworthy impact on the elections. Matteo Salvini’s League emerged as the largest single party in Italy, securing 34.3% of the votes. Meanwhile, M5S, though not classified as an extremist or far-right party, has expressed Eurosceptic views and anti-immigration sentiments in the past.
Hungary: Fidesz and Jobbik
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s Fidesz Party received 52.16% of the Hungarian votes, continuing its dominance in the European Parliament. The far-right Jobbik Party, which once held a significant presence, saw a decrease in support but still managed to secure 13.97% of the votes.
Poland: Law and Justice (PiS) and Confederation Liberty and Independence (KNP)
In Poland, the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party gained a substantial 45.65% of the votes, while the far-right Confederation Liberty and Independence (KNP), despite a strong anti-immigration stance, only managed to secure 3.52% of the votes.
5. Austria: Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and the Alliance for the Future of Austria (BZÖ)
The Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), part of the Austrian government coalition, obtained 17.2% of the votes in the European Parliament elections. The far-right Alliance for the Future of Austria (BZÖ), led by ex-Chancellor Jörg Haider, received 2.98% of the votes.
6. United Kingdom: Brexit Party and UKIP
Nigel Farage’s Brexit Party swept the European Parliament elections in the United Kingdom, securing 31.6% of the votes with a clear focus on Brexit and anti-immigration sentiments. UKIP, once a prominent far-right party in Britain, saw its support wane with only 4.5% of the votes.
Analysis of far-right parties’ success factors:
Anti-immigration sentiments and Euroscepticism
The far-right parties’ success can be attributed to their anti-immigration stance and Eurosceptic views. These sentiments resonate with a significant portion of the European population, who feel disconnected from the European Union (EU) and its policies.
Use of social media and online campaigning
Social media and online campaigning played a crucial role in the far-right parties’ success. These platforms enabled them to reach a wider audience, target specific demographics, and engage in direct communication with voters.
Charismatic leaders and party organization
Charismatic leaders like Marine Le Pen, Matteo Salvini, Viktor Orban, and Nigel Farage have been instrumental in galvanizing support for their parties. Effective party organization, strong messaging, and clear political agendas also contributed to their success.
| Country | Far-right Party | Votes (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Place | France | National Rally (RN) | 23.31% |
| Italy | League (Lega) | 34.3% | |
| Hungary | Fidesz Party | 52.16% | |
| Poland | Law and Justice (PiS) | 45.65% | |
| Austria | Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) | 17.2% | |
| United Kingdom | Brexit Party | 31.6% |
I Policy Implications and Challenges for European Union (EU):
The impact of far-right parties on EU policymaking
The rise of
Threats to the rule of law and fundamental rights
The far-right parties’ impact on EU policymaking could undermine the protection of fundamental human rights. Some parties advocate for policies that discriminate against minorities based on race, religion, or ethnicity, and these ideas could potentially influence EU legislation. Furthermore, there are concerns about the potential erosion of the rule of law within some member states where far-right parties hold significant power, which could lead to a destabilizing effect throughout the EU.
Challenges to EU unity and multilateralism
The far-right parties’ influence on the European Union also poses a risk to EU unity and multilateralism. With their nationalistic agendas, they often challenge the collective decision-making processes that underpin the EU. This could lead to a fragmentation of the Union and a weakening of its ability to address common challenges effectively. Additionally, far-right parties’ rejection of multilateralism could lead to a withdrawal from international organizations and agreements that the EU holds dear.
Potential responses from mainstream parties and European institutions
In response to the challenges posed by far-right parties, mainstream parties and European institutions have several options at their disposal. One potential strategy is for mainstream parties to form coalitions with center-left and green parties to counterbalance the influence of far-right parties. This could help maintain a progressive majority in EU policymaking bodies and prevent regressive policies from being adopted.
Forming coalitions with center-left and green parties
Forming alliances with like-minded political forces can help mitigate the impact of far-right parties on EU policymaking. By consolidating their power and working together, mainstream parties can present a united front against the challenges posed by far-right parties and ensure that EU policies continue to protect fundamental human rights and promote unity.
Engaging far-right parties in policymaking and dialogue
Another potential response is to engage far-right parties in policymaking and dialogue. While this approach carries risks, it could potentially help isolate more extreme elements within these parties and encourage moderation. By bringing far-right parties into the political mainstream, European institutions might be able to foster a greater sense of inclusivity and potentially reduce their appeal to voters. However, this approach should be carefully considered and implemented in a manner that ensures the protection of the EU’s core values.
IV. The far-right surge in European politics has brought about significant national political consequences, which are worth exploring in depth.
Impact on national governments and their policies
France:
The success of the National Front (RN) in France has forced President Emmanuel Macron to rethink his political strategy. Macron, who came to power in 2017 on a centrist platform, has sought to implement reforms aimed at modernizing the French economy and liberalizing labor markets. However, his popularity has waned in the face of growing opposition from the far-right. In response, Macron has attempted to co-opt some of the RN’s populist rhetoric on immigration and law and order while maintaining his pro-European stance. The implications for French politics are significant: Macron may be forced to adopt more nationalist policies to appease the far-right, or risk losing support to Marine Le Pen’s RN.
Italy:
The formation of a coalition between the League and the Five Star Movement (M5S) in Italy has brought the far-right to power. The new government, led by Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, has pledged to pursue a radical agenda that includes reducing immigration, increasing social spending, and challenging EU fiscal rules. The consequences for Italian politics are profound: the new government’s policies are likely to exacerbate the country’s economic problems, further fragment its political system, and strain relations with Brussels.
Hungary:
In Hungary, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz party has continued to consolidate power through a series of controversial measures that have eroded democratic norms and undermined the rule of law. Orbán’s influence on European politics is significant: he has used his position to challenge EU institutions, particularly those related to migration policy and fiscal rules. The consequences for Hungarian politics are worrying: the country is becoming increasingly authoritarian, with little dissent from the opposition or civil society.
Potential for further fragmentation and polarization within European political systems
The far-right surge in Europe has the potential to further fragment and polarize national political systems, with implications for EU unity and stability. The rise of populist parties challenges established political elites and threatens to undermine the liberal democratic norms that underpin European politics. The consequences for Europe are significant: further polarization and fragmentation could lead to increased instability, with potentially far-reaching economic and social consequences.
Conclusion
Recap of Far-Right Parties’ Gains in the European Parliamentary Elections and Their Implications for National Politics
The European Parliamentary elections of 2019 saw significant gains for far-right parties across Europe. From the Rassemblement National in France, to the Freedom Party of Austria, and the Italian League, these parties have made a strong resurgence on the political scene. Their electoral successes have far-reaching implications for national politics, with some far-right leaders already taking on influential roles within their respective governments. In countries like Hungary and Poland, far-right parties have been in power for years, shaping the political landscape according to their divisive agendas.
Reflection on the Challenges Posed by Far-Right Parties to European Unity, Democracy, and Multilateralism
The rise of far-right parties poses a significant challenge to the unity, democracy, and multilateral spirit of Europe. By promoting divisive rhetoric, stoking fear, and often disregarding fundamental democratic values, these parties threaten the cohesion of the European Union. Their anti-establishment stance can fuel disillusionment among citizens and weaken trust in democratic institutions, making it more difficult for mainstream political actors to address the root causes of discontent. Moreover, their rejection of multilateralism and international cooperation can undermine European efforts in areas such as climate change mitigation and global peacekeeping.
Consideration of Potential Responses from Mainstream Political Actors and the EU Itself
Mainstream political actors and the European Union itself are not without means to respond to the far-right challenge. One possible strategy is to engage in constructive dialogue with these parties, acknowledging their concerns and working together on areas of common ground. This approach requires a nuanced understanding of the underlying drivers of far-right successes, such as economic uncertainty, social inequality, and perceived threats to national identity. Another strategy is to strengthen democratic institutions and values at the European level, making it clear that these are not negotiable. This could involve investing in education, promoting media literacy, and ensuring transparency and accountability in European politics. Finally, cooperation between EU member states on issues of shared concern can help to counterbalance the influence of far-right parties and maintain European unity.
