The rise of the European far right is gaining traction, paralleling the political climate in the United States under Donald Trump’s leadership. Should Trump win the presidency again, he will see a landscape across the Atlantic that mirrors his own ideological leanings—authoritarianism, populism, and a fierce opposition to immigration. A significant milestone in this political shift occurred on September 29, when Austria’s Freedom Party (FPÖ), known for its extremist views and Nazi foundations, emerged as the dominant party in national elections, capturing nearly 29% of the votes. The FPÖ’s agenda includes the controversial proposal to “remigrate” individuals of migrant descent in a bid to foster a more “homogenous” society. This trend is not a recent development; it has been observed over the past decade but has significantly accelerated in the last year.
Several factors contribute to this surge in far-right popularity. The global financial crisis of 2007-2008 starkly affected the economic landscape in Europe, leaving citizens struggling with decreased public services and infrastructural decay. This economic discontent, paired with a significant influx of migrants resulting from conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa, has revived deep-seated racial tensions among the European populace. Scholars have noted this cyclical phenomenon: economic struggles often lead to a rise in racism and xenophobia. In light of current challenges—such as historic inflation, reduced social programs, and an energy crisis—far-right rhetoric finds fertile ground among voters feeling left behind.
Leaders of major far-right parties across Europe have intensified their anti-immigration rhetoric amidst this discontent. Geert Wilders of the Dutch Party for Freedom and Marine Le Pen of France’s National Rally exemplify this trend. Wilders, who has a history of inflammatory statements against Islam, has fiercely advocated for closing borders and halting asylum claims. Meanwhile, Le Pen has made efforts to moderate her party’s image while maintaining hardline stances on immigration—equating France’s Muslim community with security threats at times. In Germany, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has adopted similar incendiary rhetoric and faced scrutiny for its ties to extremist symbols, reflecting a broader trend of far-right normalization in political discourse.
These far-right parties not only share a common opposition to immigration but also present a narrative that the preservation of European values and culture is under threat from immigration. Experts warn about the dangerous undercurrents of their rhetoric, as the suggestion of ethnic replacement echoes the darkest chapters of European history. In a climate where mainstream political parties have increasingly capitulated to these ideas for fear of losing electoral ground, the normative shift in discourse has significant implications for democratic values and societal cohesion in Europe.
Despite the unsettling rise of far-right parties, there remains a framework for mainstream political parties to resist their influence through coalitional politics. Observations indicate that some center-right and center-left parties are now adopting policies that reflect elements of far-right ideologies, yet they still cooperate to form coalitions that can limit the far-right’s influence in government. This dynamic was evident in Austria, where the ruling party hesitated to align with the FPÖ, and in France, where tactical voting effectively limited Le Pen’s parliamentary power amid parliamentary elections.
As political analysts look to the future, they acknowledge the growing weight of far-right parties, which are increasingly becoming primary contenders on the political stage rather than mere opposition. This evolution raises vital questions regarding the preservation of electoral democracy. The willingness to engage with these parties while adhering to democratic principles is essential for maintaining a political environment that respects voter sentiment without succumbing to extremism. Ultimately, the trajectory of the far right in Europe reveals a complex interplay between anger, socioeconomic challenges, and shifting political identities that warrants careful examination and robust, principled responses from the broader political landscape.
