Elections for the European Parliament in 27 countries ended with early projections showing strong results for far-right parties, indicating a significant voter dissatisfaction with the political mainstream. This outcome is likely to make it challenging for the European Parliament to form majorities to pass laws and will make negotiations over divisive issues even tougher. The momentum of far-right forces challenging centrists has yet to crest, underscoring a growing challenge to the European political establishment.
Centrist leaders and their parties in countries like France and Germany, considered the engine of Europe’s experiment in pooling national sovereignty, faced a blow in the election results. President Emmanuel Macron’s Renaissance party was projected to have about half the support of Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally in France, potentially leaving her in a strong position to challenge the French mainstream in future presidential elections. Similarly, the far-right Alternative for Germany party showed strong results, positioning them as the country’s second-ranking party.
Right-wing parties now govern alone or in coalitions in seven of the EU’s 27 countries, gaining traction across the continent with a focus on nationalism and identity tied to issues like migration and culture wars. The strong showing of far-right parties in the elections could have implications beyond Europe, potentially influencing similar political forces in the United States, particularly in support of former President Donald J. Trump. Factors contributing to the right’s rise include anger over Covid-era policies, inflation, and the war in Ukraine, leading some to turn away from cheap Russian energy.
Some far-right factions in the European Parliament are pro-Russia and may push for a swift peace deal with Ukraine on Russia’s terms, impacting the EU’s support for Kyiv. These voices could lead to changes in the EU’s environmental and migration policies, with leaders already making concessions to address concerns from conservative and further-right voters. The electoral success of more radical right-wing parties could further shape policies and decisions at the EU level, with implications for the bloc’s future direction and priorities.
Fresh figures based on actual votes counted were expected to be released later on the evening of the elections, providing a clearer picture of the political landscape in the European Parliament. The strong showing of far-right parties in the elections reflects a broader trend of growing support for nationalist and identity-focused politics, challenging the traditional centrist consensus and potentially shaping the future of European politics. The waves of voter dissatisfaction and support for far-right forces may influence policy decisions, alliances, and election strategies in the years to come, both within Europe and beyond.
