Following four days of elections across 27 EU countries, far-right parties have made notable gains, although the central political bloc of the EU remains intact. Johan Hassel, senior fellow and director of Global Progress at the Center for American Progress, responded with a statement:
"Democracy was on the ballot in the European Parliament elections. While centrist groups remain the largest block, projected gains by far-right parties could leave Europe in a more dangerous place. Pro-European forces must continue to work together. The growing power of the far right could jeopardize European support for Ukraine, efforts to tackle climate change, and immigration policies."
Hassel noted that extremist candidates did not perform as well as anticipated in some countries, indicating "the resilience of European values amid a campaign marked by physical attacks on left and center-left candidates, xenophobia, and rampant disinformation." He attributed the rise of far-right parties to public anxiety over economic issues, cost of living concerns, migration, and crime.
"Progressive forces must listen to the voters and make stronger arguments for the policies that will make a difference in voters’ lives," Hassel emphasized.
For further information or expert commentary, contact Sam Hananel at [email protected].
