New EU Parliament: Rising Far-Right Influence Challenges Centrist Majority

Many observers felt relieved when pro-EU parties retained their majority in the European Parliament elections. These parties plan to endorse Ursula von der Leyen’s new European Commission soon. Their main goals include making the European economy greener, more competitive, and more secure.

However, a troubling trend is emerging. The far-right parties are gaining influence even before the new commission starts. They are encouraged by Donald Trump’s return to the White House. The new European Parliament is the most right-wing in EU history. The majority of its members belong to Von der Leyen’s centre-right European People’s Party (EPP) and far-right groups, including the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) and the Patriots for Europe (PfE).

The new EU Commission and the Council are also leaning right. More than half of the members in these institutions are from right-wing parties. This shift could end the moderate governance that has defined the EU since its inception. Von der Leyen previously promised to stay in the political center, but she may now seek support from right-wing parties to implement her policies.

In the EU Parliament, coalitions have typically formed around specific issues rather than party lines. So, it is likely Von der Leyen will work with far-right parties to achieve her agenda while keeping a facade of mainstream approval. The three far-right groups together hold 187 out of 720 seats, offering significant support for the EPP.

Additionally, the EU Council consists of many governments led by right-wing leaders. They could push the commission to abandon its stated priorities. For example, earlier this year, Von der Leyen yielded to far-right-supported farmer protests and canceled elements of the green plan.

Recent trends show a shift away from green policies. There has been pushback against environmental regulations, such as a ban on combustion engines and delays in deforestation laws. The EPP has even voted alongside far-right parties on key resolutions.

What factors are contributing to the rise of far-right parties in Europe?

Exclusive Interview: Analyzing the Shift in European Politics with Dr. Elena Rossi, Political Scientist at the European Institute for Policy Studies

News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rossi. The recent European Parliament elections have produced a concerning trend regarding the rise of far-right parties. Can you provide some context on what this means for the political landscape in the EU?

Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me. Indeed, the results of the recent elections have marked a significant turning point for the European Union. While pro-EU parties like the European People’s Party (EPP) have retained their majority, the emergence of more right-wing factions such as the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) and Patriots for Europe (PfE) reflects a growing shift toward conservatism that could reshape EU policies fundamentally.

News Directory 3: You mentioned a shift in policies. How do you foresee this new political dynamic affecting key issues, particularly in light of Ursula von der Leyen’s goals for the European economy?

Dr. Rossi: Ursula von der Leyen has focused on making the European economy greener, more competitive, and more secure. However, the growing influence of far-right parties raises questions about how these priorities will be addressed. History shows that right-wing parties often prioritize nationalism and may oppose comprehensive climate policies, which could pose a challenge to von der Leyen’s agenda. If she chooses to align herself with these parties to maintain her majority, we may witness a compromise that dilutes pro-European progressivism.

News Directory 3: In your opinion, what are the implications of Donald Trump’s possible re-election for European far-right parties?

Dr. Rossi: Trump’s potential return to the White House is undoubtedly emboldening far-right parties in Europe. His brand of populism resonates with many of these groups, and they are likely to seek validation and partnership with his administration. This perceived solidarity can amplify their influence within European discourse, potentially undermining the EU’s core values of democracy and unity.

News Directory 3: You highlighted that the new EU Commission and Council are leaning right as well. What does this mean for the future of governance in the EU?

Dr. Rossi: The fact that more than half of the members in the new institutions are from right-wing parties could lead to a significant departure from the moderate governance that has defined the EU for decades. Von der Leyen may find herself navigating a more contentious political climate, wherein she might compromise her centrist values to secure support from the right in order to pass legislation. This could alter the EU’s approach to social policies, immigration, and environmental commitments, prioritizing the wishes of right-wing factions over traditional EU cohesion.

News Directory 3: As the political landscape shifts, what do you suggest is the best course of action for pro-EU parties to navigate this changing environment?

Dr. Rossi: Pro-EU parties need to focus on reconnecting with voters and addressing their concerns directly. They should emphasize the tangible benefits that EU membership brings, such as economic stability and mobility, while also being open to discussions about reforming policies that many citizens find unsatisfactory. Collaboration—both within the EU and with centrist and left-leaning parties—will be crucial to preventing the normalization of extreme right-wing ideologies and safeguarding the values that underpin the European project.

News Directory 3: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Rossi. As the new European Parliament convenes, it will be essential to watch how these dynamics unfold.

Dr. Rossi: Absolutely. It’s a pivotal moment for Europe, and how leaders respond will define the next chapter in EU politics. Thank you for having me.

For more updates on the evolving political dynamics in the EU, keep following News Directory 3.

Parties like Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy have gained leadership positions within the European Parliament. Although far-right groups are officially excluded from full partnerships with mainstream EU parties, this barrier has already weakened. In countries like Italy, the Netherlands, and Sweden, coalitions now include far-right politicians.

EPP leaders have been in contact with far-right members in recent months. Von der Leyen has also shown openness to controversial migration policies. The EPP’s refusal to sign a declaration against far-right violence raises concerns about the direction of EU politics.

As the new commissioners undergo public hearings, there is a chance the Parliament could reject them. However, this outcome seems unlikely, as it would delay the commission’s start.

Members of Parliament should ask Von der Leyen which political majority she plans to rely on: the far-right or mainstream parties. Recent actions suggest a shift toward the right. Welcome to the new Europe.