In recent years, the rise of far-right politics in Europe has sparked concern among politicians, analysts, and citizens alike. The European Union, long hailed as a post-national bastion of liberal values, is not just hospitable to illiberal nationalism, but possibly enabling its spread across the continent. Far right parties are forecast to win up to a quarter of European Parliament seats. What would that mean for the future of the EU and democracy as a whole?
With voters taking to the polls in dozens of countries this year, there is a growing fear that election outcomes could lean conservative. Paula Rettl, a political scientist, says that a lack of strong centrist leadership has paved the way for far-right ideologies to gain traction among voters. The consequences of this shift could have far-reaching implications for the political landscape of Europe.
Ahead of the European election, striking data shows where Gen Z and millennials' allegiances lie. Younger generations are increasingly drawn to the promises of far-right parties, disillusioned by traditional political establishments. This trend is a cause for concern, as it signals a potential shift towards more divisive and exclusionary policies in the future.
This is a historic and pivotal year for democracy across the globe. Around 70 countries – from the United States to South Africa – are facing crucial elections that will shape the course of their respective nations. The rise of far-right politics in Europe is just one example of the growing trend towards populism and nationalism on a global scale.
In late January, Tucker Carlson visited Canada, meeting with influential Canadian politicians and political commentators. This meeting highlighted the growing influence of far-right ideologies in North America, as well as the increasing interconnectedness of nationalist movements around the world. The spread of these ideologies poses a significant threat to the stability and unity of democratic societies.
Neuropolitics, the science of using brain activity to predict political preferences, is a controversial but increasingly relevant field. The use of advanced technology to manipulate and control voter behavior is a growing concern in the age of social media and big data. The rise of far-right politics in Europe and beyond is a stark reminder of the potential dangers of weaponizing neuroscience for political gain.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric shakes hands with Colombian President Gustavo Petro at a news conference at the presidential palace in a show of solidarity against the rise of far-right politics in Latin America. The spread of nationalist ideologies in the region threatens to undermine the progress made towards democracy and human rights in recent years.
This chart shows the share of seats held by far-right parties across Europe in 2023. The increasing presence of these parties in national parliaments and the European Parliament is a concerning trend that could have far-reaching implications for the future of democracy in Europe. The rise of far-right politics poses a threat to the values of tolerance, diversity, and inclusion that have long been championed by the EU.
