More than 50 nations are set to hold elections this year, with significant political events unfolding in mainland Europe. Scheduled for June, the European Parliament elections will be complemented by general and regional elections in various European countries.
In 2023, the Netherlands elected the far-right Geert Wilders, while Germany's regional elections saw substantial gains for the far-right AfD party. Slovakia chose pro-Russia populist Prime Minister Robert Fico. Conversely, Poland and Spain resisted right-wing advances in their respective national elections. Former EU President Donald Tusk assumed the Polish premiership, shifting power from the right-wing Law and Justice party. In Spain, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez secured a third term, defeating far-right opposition.
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As Europe gears up for the upcoming elections, questions arise about the popularity of populism and the status of far-right movements. Will these movements continue to gain traction, or has the allure of the far-right diminished? Key issues shaping the electoral landscape include the state of a more divided European Parliament and the prominence of right-wing groups.
The European Parliament, set to convene in early June, serves as a political barometer for sentiments across the continent. While centrist factions currently dominate, there is an anticipated rightward shift, with projections indicating increased influence for right-wing groups, including the populist Identity and Democracy group. Their objectives, voiced in a meeting in Florence, Italy, highlight ambitions to become a decisive force in the EU Parliament.
Key concerns driving votes include immigration and the war in Ukraine, according to the Eurobarometer. Migration, a stronghold for right-leaning nationalist parties, has influenced regional and national elections. Issues related to climate goals are also significant, as a potential rise of conservative voices may impact EU-wide legislation on environmental matters.
Despite discussions about potential exits from the EU (Nexit, Frexit, Italexit), these ideas remain largely unpopular. The aftermath of Brexit has made countries hesitant to follow suit, and recent developments show more nations expressing interest in joining the EU. In December, the EU agreed to open membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova, while Georgia was granted candidate status.