From the Fringe to the Forefront

By Todd Meltzer

Introduction

In recent years, right-wing parties have been taking a foothold in various governments in Europe. The rise of far-right parties in Europe represents one of the most significant political shifts in recent decades. Economic instability, immigration concerns, and disillusionment with traditional politics have driven the popularity of these movements. Countries like Hungary, Italy, and the Netherlands have become strongholds for far-right parties, and their influence is growing in France, Germany, and Austria. Understanding the drivers behind this rise and the potential long-term implications is critical to appreciating the current and future landscape of European politics.

Economic Instability

A key factor in the rise of the far-right is the response to economic instability. Globalization and its consequences such as job displacement, wage stagnation, and rising inequality, have left many voters feeling alienated. Far-right parties, by positioning themselves as defenders of the "ordinary people" against international elites, have been able to exploit these sentiments effectively. In Italy, Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party has capitalized on these concerns, advocating for economic protectionism to safeguard Italian businesses from foreign competition. Similarly, Hungary’s Fidesz, led by Viktor Orbán, promotes economic nationalism, framing EU membership as a threat to national sovereignty and economic security. These leaders appeal to voters by suggesting that the restoration of national pride and protectionist policies will stabilize economies weakened by decades of globalization. This approach has already begun to shape the European Parliament. Six far-right parties hold a notable presence in EU governments, with the potential to form a significant bloc in future elections. This concentration of power could radically shift EU economic policies, leading to greater protectionism and less cooperation on broader international issues like trade or climate action.

Immigration and National Identity

Immigration has been another central issue for far-right parties. They present immigration as a threat to national identity and cultural homogeneity, stoking fears about the impact of immigration on national security and jobs. Viktor Orbán’s anti-immigration stance is particularly visible in Hungary, where his government has fortified borders and passed stringent laws that target asylum seekers. Orbán's rhetoric and policies appeal to voters who see immigration as an existential threat to Europe’s Christian roots. Italy's policies under Meloni follow a similar path. She argues that immigration undermines Italian culture and threatens the social fabric of the country. In both Hungary and Italy, the far-right has fused concerns about immigration with a broader narrative about preserving Europe’s Christian identity, a theme that has deep resonance with many voters. By portraying themselves as defenders of traditional values, these parties tie anti-immigration policies to broader cultural anxieties, particularly opposition to progressive movements like LGBTQ+ rights.

Disillusionment with Mainstream Politics

Far-right movements have benefited from widespread disillusionment with mainstream politics. Many voters see traditional parties as out of touch, corrupt, or incapable of addressing their concerns. Far-right leaders position themselves as outsiders who are willing to challenge the status quo and stand up for the “forgotten people.” In France, Marine Le Pen's National Rally has successfully tapped into this discontent. Le Pen’s rhetoric focuses on protecting French sovereignty and values, offering voters a nationalistic alternative to the traditional center-right and center-left parties, which she portrays as ineffective. Far-right parties have successfully used populist tactics to frame themselves as the champions of the working class, emphasizing their commitment to national interests over global cooperation.

The Christian Roots of Europe

An often-underexplored theme within far-right rhetoric is the emphasis on Europe’s Christian heritage. Far-right leaders claim that immigration and multiculturalism undermine the continent's Christian values, which they argue are integral to its identity. This rhetoric has been particularly powerful in countries with strong Catholic or Orthodox traditions, such as Poland, Italy and Hungary. This emphasis on Christianity often serves as a justification for their stance on social issues, such as opposition to LGBTQ+ rights. Orbán, for example, has positioned himself as a defender of "Christian Europe" against what he calls the liberal forces of multiculturalism and secularism. This framing allows far-right parties to appeal to conservative voters who are concerned about the perceived erosion of traditional family values.

Policy Focus of Far-Right Parties

The policy platforms of far-right parties typically emphasize nationalism, strict immigration control, and economic protectionism. In Hungary, Fidesz promotes policies that prioritize Hungarian businesses and cultural identity while reducing the influence of international institutions like the European Union. Orbán's government has implemented measures that limit the rights of foreign businesses operating in Hungary and has promoted policies to increase national economic self-sufficiency. In Finland, the Finns Party similarly emphasizes national sovereignty, calling for stricter immigration policies and advocating for economic policies that protect Finnish jobs from global competition. Their message is clear that national interests should take precedence over international cooperation.

Conclusion

The rise of far-right parties in Europe can be attributed to a combination of economic insecurity, fear of immigration, and frustration with mainstream politics. By framing their policies around nationalism, protectionism, and the defense of Christian values, these parties have resonated with voters across Europe. As they continue to gain influence, their impact on European politics will likely grow, with potential ramifications for the future of the European Union. In the near future, the increasing presence of far-right parties could lead to greater tensions within the EU, as countries adopt more inward-looking policies that challenge the principles of free movement and integration. Whether or not this trend can be reversed will depend on the ability of mainstream parties to address the economic and cultural anxieties that far-right parties have so effectively exploited.