📷 Image Credits: Al Jazeera English
The recent European Parliament elections in 2024 have brought key changes and implications for the political landscape in the European Union. After residents in 27 countries across the EU went to the polls, the results show a significant surge for far-right parties, impacting the overall balance of power in Brussels. The centre-right European People\’s Party (EPP) led by Ursula von der Leyen has maintained its stronghold as the largest group in the European Parliament. However, the rise of far-right parties poses challenges for policymaking, with concerns about environmental policies, migration, and foreign aid to countries like Ukraine.
Analysts point to various reasons for the political shifts, such as conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, economic crises, and a general sense of anxiety among voters seeking security. The far-right\’s promise of security has resonated with certain segments of the population, leading to their electoral gains. Despite these advances, far-right parties are not united, which could hinder their ability to effectively block or slow down EU policies on critical issues.
The outcomes of the EU elections have also been reflective of national sentiments, serving as referendums on the performance of incumbent leaders. In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz\’s Social Democratic Party faced challenges from far-right parties like Alternative for Germany (AfD), while in Italy, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni\’s group secured significant votes. The election results suggest a broader trend of nationalist and far-right movements making gains in various EU countries, reshaping the political landscape of the union.
Furthermore, the success of conservative parties in countries like Germany, Greece, Poland, and Spain highlights the resilience of the center-right amidst the political shifts. These parties have maintained or even increased their seats in the European Parliament, influencing policy directions at the EU level. The overall impact of these election results on EU governance and policymaking remains to be seen, as alliances and negotiations will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the European Union.
