German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has entered the European election campaign by cautioning against seeking support from far-right parties in the upcoming European Parliament elections. Scholz emphasized the need for the next president of the European Commission to not rely on the backing of far-right parties to effectively lead the 27-member bloc. He expressed concern over the ambiguity of recent political statements and stressed the importance of establishing a commission presidency supported by traditional parties for the future of Europe.
While Scholz did not specify the statements he was referring to, his remarks are seen as a warning to current Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who has not ruled out working with some members of far-right parties. Von der Leyen, a German conservative, is a member of the center-right European People’s Party group, which has traditionally played a significant role in Brussels alongside the center-left Socialists. However, with the political landscape evolving, there are concerns about potential collaborations with far-right groups, such as the European Conservatives and Reformists, which oppose further EU integration and immigration.
As the European Parliament elections draw closer, political alliances are already shifting. A right-wing group in the European Parliament recently expelled the far-right Alternative for Germany party due to scandals involving its leading candidate. Sylvia Limmer, one of the AfD’s lawmakers, also resigned, citing authoritarian leadership. Scholz attributed the rise of far-right parties to uncertainties stemming from rapid economic changes, new technologies, and climate change. He advocated for a modernizing and inclusive agenda to counter the political trend and instill confidence in the future among the population.
The discussions around potential cooperation with far-right parties have raised concerns among left-leaning parties across Europe. Scholz’s emphasis on the need for the next president of the European Commission to have the support of traditional parties underscores the importance of maintaining stability and unity within the EU. The upcoming elections will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of EU policy, with parties adjusting their strategies and alliances based on the evolving political landscape and voter preferences. As the campaign intensifies, the focus remains on building a commission presidency that is aligned with the values and principles of the European Union.
