The rise of the European far right, characterized by authoritarianism, populism, and extreme hostility to immigration, has reached a high-water mark with parties like Austria’s Freedom Party making significant gains. This trend has been ongoing for at least a decade but has seen a significant surge in the past 12 months. Factors such as the global financial crisis of 2007-08 and the influx of migrants into Europe have contributed to the growth of far-right parties. Economic struggles and concerns about cultural identity have fueled support for these parties, which often advocate for strict immigration policies and protectionist measures.
Parties like France’s National Rally, the Dutch Party for Freedom, and Germany’s Alternative for Germany have gained traction by tapping into anti-immigrant sentiments and promoting nationalist ideals. They often espouse controversial views on immigration, Islam, and cultural preservation. These parties have forced mainstream parties to shift to the right on certain issues to compete for votes, leading to a normalization of once radical ideas.
Despite mainstream parties’ attempts to keep far-right parties out of power through coalitions and tactical voting, the far right continues to grow, challenging traditional political dynamics. The far right’s rise poses a dilemma for democracies on how to address the growing support for these parties while upholding democratic values. As these parties become more entrenched in European politics, the political landscape is shifting towards a scenario where far-right parties may become the dominant force on the right-wing spectrum.
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