The recent European Parliament elections saw a significant backing of centrists across the European Union’s 27 members, with some gains for far-right parties. However, centrist political groups are still expected to maintain a clear majority in the assembly. The rise of far-right forces has posed a challenge to the continent’s traditional political establishment, particularly in France and Germany, where the mainstream parties suffered losses. President Emmanuel Macron of France, in response to the results, announced the dissolution of the National Assembly and called for new legislative elections.
The far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD) made significant gains in the elections, becoming the country’s second-ranking party. The rise of right-wing parties across Europe, fueled by issues such as nationalism, identity, migration, and cultural issues, is likely to have implications beyond the continent, potentially impacting similar political forces in the United States, particularly those loyal to former President Donald J. Trump. Other factors contributing to the surge in far-right support include anger over Covid-era policies, inflation post-pandemic, and the repercussions of the war in Ukraine.
The election results exposed weaknesses in the governments of France and Germany, the core members of the E.U., raising concerns about their ability to lead the bloc effectively. While environmental policies and migration policies have been adjusted to appease conservative and right-wing voters, the success of more radical right-wing parties may push for stricter borders and a scaling back of climate ambitions at the E.U. level. Despite the gains for the far right, the mainstream conservative group in the European Parliament remained in first place in the election, with the centrist parties experiencing losses.
The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, celebrated her party’s victory and called on other centrists to work together to ensure a strong and effective Europe. The Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats and the Renew group faced losses in the election, weakening the political center at the European level. The Greens, while experiencing a decline in support, could still play a significant role in bolstering centrist majorities as an alternative to far-right parties. The final results from all 27 E.U. countries were expected to be disclosed early the following week.
The balance of power in the European Parliament is largely maintained despite the shifts in the election results, with legislative powers, budget approval, and the selection of top leaders at stake. The first test of the weaker centrist majority will be over the approval of the new European Commission president in July. Von der Leyen, who will likely be nominated again, will need to secure her appointment by working with centrist partners on policy commitments, particularly regarding climate issues. The voting process for the European Commission president is done in secret, potentially leading to challenges in garnering support from presumed allies.
