Far-right Parties Plan to Reshape EU After 2023 Elections

Far-right Parties Unite in Italy to Reimagine the EU

European far-right parties gathered in Italy on Sunday, pledging to overhaul the European Union following next year’s European Parliament elections. Their agenda includes toughening the bloc’s stance on immigration and softening climate policies to safeguard jobs and industry.

Far-right Aims to Become Decisive Force in EU Parliament

Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, the host of the meeting, expressed the goal for far-right parties to become the third-largest group in the EU parliament, positioning themselves as a decisive force alongside the center-right and the socialists.

European Far-right Gains Momentum

The far-right Identity and Democracy (ID) group, currently the sixth-largest in the EU assembly, is gaining ground based on current polling data, positioning itself as a potential fourth-largest group.

Wilders’ Success Fuels Far-right Ambitions

Geert Wilders’ anti-immigration Freedom Party’s surprising victory in the Netherlands last month has energized the far-right movement. Wilders hopes to ignite a wave of similar triumphs across Europe, emphasizing the need to reshape the political landscape.

Challenges and Disagreements Within the Far-right

While far-right parties are united in their objectives, there are differences in opinion on various issues. Disagreements range from public spending and euro zone budget discipline to conflicts in Ukraine and the Israel-Palestine situation.

Far-right Leaders Voice Opposition to EU Policies

Leaders such as Salvini, Wilders, and Tino Chrupalla of Alternative for Germany (AfD) opposed the EU’s decision to ban new CO2-emitting cars from 2035, criticizing the move as detrimental to the automotive industry. They also expressed skepticism about the EU’s approach to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Far-right Stresses Opposition to Immigration and Climate Policies

Far-right leaders highlighted concerns about Europe’s immigration policies, emphasizing the need to address the impact of mass immigration on crime and violence. Additionally, they advocated for a reevaluation of the EU’s climate policies to safeguard jobs and industries.

Salvini’s Evolving Stance on International Relations

Matteo Salvini, previously known for his admiration of Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressed support for interventions in defense of Ukraine, emphasizing his party’s commitment to the cause.