European Parliament elections see rightward shift

Voters across Europe cast their ballots on Sunday in the European Parliament elections, likely shifting the assembly to the right and increasing the number of euroskeptic nationalists. In Austria, the far-right Freedom Party is projected to win, reflecting broader trends across the EU. This rightward shift may impact the Parliament’s stance on climate change policies and immigration measures. Increased fragmentation could slow legislative processes as the EU faces challenges from Russia, China, and the U.S.

The elections, spanning several days, saw varying voter sentiments, with some expressing hope for a unified Europe and others highlighting dissatisfaction with EU decision-making. Opinion polls suggest the center-right European People’s Party (EPP) will remain the largest group, potentially securing Ursula von der Leyen a second term as European Commission President, albeit with possible support from right-wing nationalists.

Projections indicate the EPP gaining five seats, while the Socialists may lose four. The European Greens and liberal group Renew Europe are expected to see significant losses. In contrast, the national-conservative ECR and far-right ID groups are predicted to gain seats. Non-affiliated deputies could also bolster right-wing groups.

Economic concerns, migration, and geopolitical tensions have driven voters towards hard and far-right parties. In Spain, the far-right Vox party emphasized a need for change in Brussels. The Netherlands saw a surge in support for nationalist Geert Wilders’ party. In Belgium, the far-right Flemish separatist party Vlaams Belang is poised for a record performance.

[With informatuon from Reuters]