The European Parliament is set to welcome a new wave of diverse and unconventional politicians following the elections earlier in June. Among them are four social media influencers who have successfully transitioned into political roles. From a Cypriot YouTuber who openly admits to knowing nothing about politics to a Czech national with controversial views and a penchant for luxury cars, these influencers represent a new breed of lawmakers shaping the future of the European Union. The rise of social media influencers in politics is challenging the traditional political landscape and highlighting the need for modernization and listening to the voices of the people.
Fidias Panayiotou, a 24-year-old Cypriot known as Fidias, captured the attention of voters despite his lack of political experience. With a substantial following on YouTube, Fidias used his platform to motivate young people to get involved in politics by running as an independent candidate. Similarly, Czech MEP Filip Turek, a former professional racing driver with libertarian views and controversial ties to Nazi paraphernalia, has made a successful transition from influencer to politician. His party secured seats in the European Parliament, challenging traditional parties and advocating for his unique brand of politics.
Alvise Pérez, a 34-year-old Spaniard, rose to fame on social media with anti-establishment and controversial views, including spreading misinformation about vaccines and inciting protests against the government. Despite his divisive reputation, Pérez’s political career has gained momentum, leading to his election as an MEP. His campaign was funded by Patreon members and focused on populist messaging that resonated with a significant portion of the Spanish electorate. However, Pérez’s decision not to travel to Brussels raises questions about his commitment to representing the interests of his constituents.
Jordan Bardella, a member of the National Rally in France, also has a background as a YouTuber. His early foray into social media as a gamer and content creator paved the way for his political career, positioning him as a prominent figure among French youth. Bardella’s success highlights the growing influence of social media in shaping political discourse and engaging younger audiences. As traditional political actors grapple with the rise of social media influencers, it is becoming increasingly clear that these unconventional lawmakers are here to stay and will play a significant role in shaping the future of European politics.
The role of social media influencers in politics is a double-edged sword, with the potential to engage and mobilize young voters while also posing challenges to the established political order. Professor Andreu Casero-Ripollés highlights the ability of political influencers to tap into public anger and grievances, transforming them into coherent and appealing messages that resonate with online audiences. By mastering various social media platforms and connecting with voters in a personal and relatable manner, influencers are able to challenge traditional politicians and bring new perspectives to the political debate.
As social media influencers continue to gain traction in politics, their impact on democracy remains a topic of debate. While they have the potential to engage disenfranchised voters and bring fresh perspectives to the table, their unconventional backgrounds and controversial views can also pose risks to established institutions. It is essential for the political establishment to adapt to the changing landscape and recognize the influence of social media influencers in shaping political discourse. Ultimately, the integration of social media influencers into the political arena highlights the evolving nature of democracy and the need for a more inclusive and responsive political system.
