The recent European elections in France have shown a trend seen in several other European countries: the rise of far-right parties at the expense of centrist parties. In France, two groups in the European Parliament, the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) and Identity and Democracy (ID), are projected to gain 13 more seats combined, reaching over 130 seats in total. Notably, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, president of the ECR, saw success with her far-right Brothers of Italy party leading in the country.
In Austria, the Freedom Party was also anticipated to secure a top position. Meanwhile, in Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left Social Democrats party was expected to finish third, with the far-right Alternative for Germany projected to take second place and win a record 15 seats. Renew Europe, a major European parliamentary grouping consisting of pro-EU centrists like Macron’s Renaissance party, was forecasted to lose 23 seats.
Political analyst Catherine Fieschi pointed out that this shift reflects both the rise of the far-right and challenges faced by left-wing parties across Europe. Specifically, Fieschi noted that these far-right parties have managed to attract voters who historically supported left-wing parties, leading to losses for centrist parties as well. This trend could have significant implications for EU policy decisions moving forward.
