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Across Europe, a troubling trend has emerged: the resurgence of far-right ideologies. Once relegated to the fringes after the turmoil of World War II, these movements are gaining traction, raising alarm among those who value democracy and human rights. From Hungary’s illiberal governance to France’s National Rally, the far-right is no longer a marginal voice but a potent force reshaping the political landscape.
However, this is the first sign that capitalism is in deep crisis, as always, its only response to such a situation is to create more chaos, disruption, and divisions in civil society. It also shows working people’s inability to counter capitalist onslaughts and confront corporate capitalism by restructuring human solidarity across civil society. This article, crafted for those invested in global politics, human rights, social justice, and the future of democracy, dissects the drivers behind this rise, the threats it poses, and practical steps to counter it. With an analytical lens and a cautionary tone, we will show how economic insecurity, immigration debates, and nationalism fuel this phenomenon and why urgent action is essential.
Understanding Far-Right Ideologies
Far-right ideologies represent a constellation of beliefs rooted in nationalism, anti-immigration sentiment, and often a tendency toward authoritarianism. Consider Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, who advocates for “Christian values” while undermining judicial independence, or Germany’s Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), which merges xenophobia with economic populism. Historically, these ideas resonated through the fascist and Nazi movements of the early 20th century, only to be stigmatized after 1945. However, since the late 20th century, they have regained relevance. Why is this the case? Social scientists attribute this resurgence to a combination of economic upheaval, cultural anxieties, and the discontents of globalization. Today, parties such as Poland’s Law and Justice (PiS) and Italy’s Brothers of Italy wield significant influence, indicating a shift that warrants careful examination.
From Fringe to Force: The Playbook of the Populist Radical Right
Forget the outdated image of skinheads in boots. Today’s populist radical right parties, such as France’s National Rally, Italy’s Brothers of Italy, and Germany’s Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), don sharper suits while promoting a potent and dangerous mix of ideologies:
1. Nativism: “Our Land, Our People, Our Way.” It encompasses more than merely enforcing stricter borders; it embodies the belief that the nation rightfully belongs only to those considered culturally, ethnically, or religiously truly native. Immigrants, minorities, and even progressive ideas are often portrayed as foreign threats that corrupt the nation’s essence. This is to create divisions and weaken societal response to decadent capitalism and its onslaught against people.
2. Authoritarianism: There is a desire for a “Strong Man” who can set things right with his iron fist. Proponents of authoritarianism promise order through strict measures: harsher punishments, reduced tolerance for dissent, and a profound skepticism towards checks and balances, similar to what we see in any Islamic theocratic state. Talk of judicial independence and human rights is often viewed as an impediment to the “national will.” And aim of this “national will” is nothing but the survival of corporate capitalism.
3. Populism: “The Pure People vs. The Corrupt Elite.” This concept serves as the emotional driving force. It divides the world into two groups: the virtuous, hardworking “real people” (us) and the self-serving, out-of-touch “elites” (them), including politicians, bureaucrats, intellectuals, and journalists. They assert that politics should merely implement the “common sense” of the people, a definition they conveniently control. This way, populism shields corporate power and the decline of capitalism.
Why This Recipe is Gaining Popularity: The Broken Promises of Capitalism
So, why are these parties gaining traction now, decades after World War II seemingly put such ideologies to rest? Look beyond the convenient scapegoat of immigration. The true driving force is a profound anger and fear fueled by a system in crisis and deeply in decline:
1. Economic Insecurity and the Great Betrayal: Do you remember 2008? The financial crash was not merely a series of numbers; it shattered lives. Jobs disappeared, savings were wiped out, and harsh austerity measures squeezed ordinary people. Mainstream parties promised stability but delivered suffering. The outcome? Eroded trust. Capitalism’s fundamental promise – work hard and get ahead – now feels like a deception. Meanwhile, the wealthy became extraordinarily rich. Income inequality is not just a statistic; we are witnessing billionaires soar into space while you struggle to pay your heating bill. This widening divide breeds anger and a desperate desire to find someone to blame.
2. The Scapegoat Symphony: This is where the far right’s playbook excels. They provide straightforward, emotionally charged solutions to complex and daunting issues. They offer simple solutions:
Blame Immigrants: you’re Experiencing a Housing crisis? Strained schools? It’s those newcomers taking your share. The studies often show immigration has a minimal economic impact. However, perception is paramount.
Blame the EU: Do you feel ignored by distant controls? Are you frustrated by being under EU control? The solution: frame the EU not as a partnership, but as a threat to national sovereignty.
Blame “Wokeness” or Is Culture shifting rapidly? Some argue it’s. It’s a scheming plot of cosmopolitan elites to undermine and destroy your traditions! Exploit and weaponize anxiety against liberal parties.
3. The 2015 Refugee Crisis: The arrival of over a million asylum seekers intensified existing fears. Sensationalist media and far-right rhetoric skillfully fueled panic over “invasions” and “cultural replacement,” solidifying negative attitudes and providing significant support to these political parties.
4. The Daily Squeeze: It’s not only significant historical shocks that impact people. It’s the farmer facing ruin due to complex EU regulations. It’s the worker whose factory has relocated overseas. It’s the German family told that replacing their gas boiler with a heat pump is essential for the planet, yet the €30,000 cost feels like an unbearable burden imposed by indifferent elites. The AfD seized the opportunity: “See? They’re coming for your heat, your car, your way of life!”
More Than Noise: The Real Threats
The far-right rise is not just a sign of changing poll results; it is threatening the core principles of democracy in Europe.
Take Poland, for instance, where the ruling Law and Justice Party has filled the courts with loyalists, or Hungary, where the once-thriving media landscape has been turned into a tool for the government.
Freedom is sounding the alarm: Democracy is regressing in areas where these parties gain power. While elections may still take place, their integrity is compromised by gerrymandering and voter suppression.
Rights are being eroded: anti-immigrant policies, like Italy’s decision to block ships, violate the law. In Poland and Hungary, LGBTQ+ rights are being rolled back under the guise of “protection.” The real danger lies in the normalization of these attitudes; as they become more mainstream, tolerance for them increases.
Shifting the Overton Window: Even without outright power, these parties influence the political agenda. The mainstream becomes fearful of losing ground and often adopts tougher rhetoric on issues like immigration and dismisses “elite” concerns such as climate change. The EU’s new 2024 migration policy, which focuses on deterrence and expedited processes, is a clear example of the far-right shifting the political landscape toward its views.
Capitalism’s Wobble: The Root of the Decline
Zoom out. The surge of far-right movements in Europe is not an isolated phenomenon; it is a symptom of a global crisis of confidence in our economic system. When capitalism consistently generates immense wealth for the top 1% while leaving the majority with stagnant wages, diminishing job security, and a shrinking middle class, it creates a breeding ground for anger and disillusionment. People perceive the system as rigged. The populist radical right does not provide genuine solutions to issues such as globalization, automation, or tax havens; instead, it offers powerful, emotionally charged scapegoats and a promise to prioritize “us” over “them”. Income inequality is not merely unjust; it is a powder keg threatening the foundations of liberal democracy.
Economic instability catalyzes the rise of far-right movements. The 2008 financial crisis left lasting scars: unemployment surged, austerity measures took a heavy toll, and trust in mainstream institutions eroded. In Greece, the Golden Dawn party capitalized on this despair, while in Spain, Vox gained popularity amid economic difficulties. Research from the European Social Survey indicates a correlation: as economic anxiety increases, so does support for populist right-wing parties that promise to serve natives first. The far-right thrives by providing simplistic solutions, blaming the EU and immigrants for complex issues, and resonating with individuals who feel marginalized.
Immigration Debates
Immigration is a key issue that galvanizes far-right groups. Research indicates that far-right support increases in areas with rapid demographic changes, driven more by perception and fear than by economic realities. Parties like France’s National Rally depict migrants as cultural and economic threats, a narrative supported by sensationalist media. In Sweden, the Sweden Democrats gained popularity by promoting fears of “cultural replacement.”
Nationalism as a Driving Force
A 2021 study found that nationalist rhetoric can help individuals cope with identity crises in a globalized world, providing comfort through an “us versus them” narrative. Nationalism is central to far-right ideologies, calling for a return to a perceived idealized past (e.g., “Poland for Poles,” “Britain for Britons”). This form of nationalism is exclusionary and often tied to ideas of ethnic purity. In Hungary, Prime Minister Orbán promotes “illiberal democracy,” emphasizing national sovereignty over EU integration.
Threats to Democratic Institutions and Human Rights
The rise of the far-right signifies a serious threat to democratic institutions. In Poland, the Law and Justice Party (PiS) has compromised judicial independence by appointing loyalists to the courts. Hungary’s media has become increasingly controlled by the government under Orbán. Freedom House’s 2023 report indicates a democratic decline in several European countries influenced by far-right ideologies. The normalization of far-right ideologies leads to increased tolerance for authoritarianism, further undermining democratic foundations.
What Can Be Done? Moving Beyond the Demonization of Voters
Ignoring the anger or simply labeling far-right supporters as “racists” is ineffective. The urgency of the moment calls for a more thoughtful approach:
1. Acknowledge the Pain: Economic anxiety, cultural unease, and profound distrust in institutions are real and legitimate feelings. Dismissing these emotions only fuels the far-right narrative that elites are indifferent.
2. Tackle the Root Causes: This is paramount. We need policies that genuinely address extreme inequality: fairer taxation, stronger worker protections, investment in communities neglected by globalization, affordable housing, and a just transition to a green economy that does not burden ordinary people. Reform capitalism; do not merely lament its failures. The success of American NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is a great example to emulate.
3. Counter Disinformation Relentlessly: Combat falsehoods with facts, as exemplified by Germany’s Correctiv, but also work to diminish their influence. Hold social media platforms accountable for amplifying outrage and hate. Support high-quality, independent journalism.
4. Strengthen Civic Engagement: Comprehensive civic education, similar to Denmark’s model, serves as a safeguard against extremism. Educate individuals on the functioning of democracy, the importance of rights, and how to identify manipulation. Foster critical thinking skills.
5. Build Inclusive Communities: Counter the “us versus. them” narrative by implementing effective integration programs that foster genuine connections and dismantle the fear, Norway demonstrated that this approach reduces xenophobia.
6. Engage, Don’t Condescend: Communicate with far-right supporters rather than speaking down to them. Take the time to understand their grievances, even if you strongly disagree with their proposed solutions. Many individuals are not rigid ideologues; they feel neglected and are seeking a lifeline.
7. Strengthening Civic Education: Knowledge serves as a bulwark against extremism. Civic education, teaching how democracy functions and why it is important, can inoculate citizens against the allure of far-right ideologies. A 2019 study published in The Journal of Democracy found that countries with strong civic programs, such as in Denmark, exhibit greater resistance to populist movements. Schools, community organizations, and media outlets can help demystify governance by emphasizing individual rights and fostering critical thinking. When individuals comprehend what is at stake, they are less likely to be swayed by demagogues.
8. Countering Disinformation: The far-right thrives on misinformation, fabricated crime statistics, and myths of a migrant “invasion.” Social media exacerbates this issue, as algorithms prioritize outrage. Progressives must counter these narratives with factual information. In the meantime, inclusive policies, such as integration programs rather than barriers, can undermine the “othering” that fuels far-right rhetoric. Evidence from Norway indicates that integration efforts can reduce xenophobic attitudes over time.
Bottom Line
The rise of Europe’s populist radical right serves as a glaring warning signal. It is a direct consequence of a crisis in capitalism, grotesque income inequality, and the failure of mainstream politics to address the resulting fear and anger. These movements provide scapegoats rather than solutions. Overcoming this threat requires more than mere outrage; it necessitates confronting the deep-seated economic and social injustices that fuel it, rebuilding trust, and fervently defending the values of an open, tolerant, and equitable democracy. Europe’s elections represent a struggle for the future we all share. Let us remain vigilant.
Europe’s far-right resurgence, driven by economic anxieties, scapegoating of immigrants, and rising nationalist fervor, is not a fleeting phenomenon. It serves as a clarion call. Democratic institutions are deteriorating, human rights are under threat, and inaction risks a descent into authoritarianism. However, hope is not lost. By strengthening civic education and combating disinformation, progressives can counter this trend.
The author is a writer who espouses a Global South perspective.
