Recently elected MEPs from Cyprus, the Czech Republic, France, and Spain have diversified backgrounds and ideologies, all stemming from their previous careers as social media influencers. Fidias Panayiotou, a 24-year-old Cypriot known as ‘Fidias’, has gained a large following on YouTube despite having no prior knowledge of politics. His controversial videos included stunts of begging and sneaking into various establishments, leading to his election on an independent platform. Filip Turek from the Czech Republic, a former professional racing driver and entrepreneur, faced backlash for his provocative comments and alleged ties to neo-Nazi movements. Despite the controversies, his party secured two seats in the European Parliament.
Alvise Pérez, a 34-year-old Spaniard, rose to fame through his controversial social media presence, spreading anti-establishment and far-right views. His career took a turn when he founded a political party and announced his candidacy for the European elections, mainly seeking parliamentary immunity to protect against legal claims. His campaign, fueled by social media followers, targeted corruption and traditional parties, embodying a far-right platform. Jordan Bardella, a member of the National Rally in France, was revealed to have previously attempted a career as a YouTuber under the pseudonym MrJordan9320. Despite his online gaming content, Bardella leveraged social media to amass a large following on TikTok, positioning himself as an influential figure among French youth.
The influence of social media on political landscapes is increasingly significant, with political influencers challenging traditional actors and engaging with younger audiences. These influencers have effectively harnessed various platforms to mobilize public anger and political grievances, presenting them in a digestible format that resonates with online users critical of the established system. The ability of these social media stars to master the language of the internet distinguishes them from conventional politicians, allowing them to connect directly with their audience and convey their messages effectively.
As the new European Parliament takes shape, the presence of social media stars turned politicians raises questions about the future of political engagement and representation. These MEPs bring a fresh perspective and unconventional background to the political arena, challenging traditional norms and methods of operation. The influence of populist figures like Alvise Pérez and Jordan Bardella reflects a broader trend of anti-establishment sentiments among the public, which is likely to shape future political discourse and policy decisions. The role of social media in amplifying their messages and engaging with younger demographics underscores the changing landscape of democracy and political communication.
The diverse backgrounds and ideologies of these social media influencers turned MEPs signal a shift in traditional politics, with unconventional figures challenging established norms. The controversies surrounding their past actions and statements raise concerns about their fitness for political office and the implications of their election on European governance. However, their ability to connect with audiences on social media platforms and mobilize support signals a changing dynamic in political engagement, highlighting the importance of digital communication in shaping public opinion and driving political change. The impact of these new MEPs on the European Parliament remains to be seen, but their presence undoubtedly marks a departure from traditional political practices and paves the way for a more diverse and inclusive representation in European politics.
