As political landscapes continuously evolve, it is essential to analyze and anticipate potential shifts in power. The looming 2024 European Parliament election has sparked concerns regarding the rising influence of far-right parties across the continent. The European Parliament serves as the legislative body of the European Union (EU), representing the interests of its member states and citizens. With 705 seats, it is a vital institution that shapes EU policies, legislation, and budget allocation. Elections for the European Parliament occur every five years, with the next scheduled for 2024. Over the past decade, far-right parties have gained momentum in several European countries. These parties often promote nationalist agendas, anti-immigration sentiments, and Eurosceptic attitudes, challenging the established political order and advocating for policies that prioritize national interests over European integration. The influx of migrants and refugees in recent years has stirred anxiety among some sections of the population, leading to increased support for far-right parties that promise stricter immigration policies. Lingering economic challenges, such as income inequality and job insecurity, have contributed to a growing discontent among certain segments of society. Far-right parties often exploit these concerns, offering protectionist economic policies and promising to safeguard national industries.

The EU’s handling of various crises, such as the sovereign debt crisis and the migration crisis, has fueled Eurosceptic sentiments across Europe. Far-right parties capitalize on these sentiments by advocating for national sovereignty and questioning the EU’s authority. While it is impossible to predict the exact outcome of the 2024 European Parliament election, many analysts and political observers are closely monitoring the rise of far-right parties. Several factors contribute to the concerns surrounding their potential ascent to power: The traditional center-left and center-right parties that have long dominated European politics are experiencing declining popularity. This fragmentation creates space for far-right parties to gain traction and potentially secure a larger share of seats in the European Parliament. The strength of far-right parties varies across European countries. While some nations have witnessed significant gains, others have managed to contain their influence. This regional variation adds complexity to the overall prediction for the election. The rise of far-right parties may lead to increased governmental instability as mainstream parties struggle to form stable coalition governments. This scenario could hinder effective policymaking and contribute to a more divided EU. Policymakers should tackle the underlying causes driving the rise of far-right sentiment, such as socioeconomic inequalities, immigration challenges, and public discontent. By addressing these issues, mainstream parties can regain trust and diminish the appeal of far-right alternatives. Encouraging active citizen participation in democratic processes is vital. This can be achieved through voter education, promoting political dialogue, and combating misinformation. By empowering citizens to make informed decisions, the influence of far-right parties can be mitigated. Mainstream parties can work towards forming strategic alliances and coalitions to counterbalance the rise of far-right parties. By joining forces, they can present a united front against far-right ideologies and strengthen their electoral prospects. Political leaders and mainstream parties must effectively communicate their policies and values to disprove the misconceptions propagated by far-right parties. They should engage with citizens, address their concerns, and articulate a positive vision for the future of Europe. The prediction surrounding the 2024 European Parliament election and the fear of far-right parties rising to power in Europe warrant attention and proactive measures. By addressing the root causes of far-right sentiment, promoting European unity, engaging citizens, building coalitions, and effectively communicating policies, the influence of far-right parties can be mitigated. It is crucial for democratic societies to uphold their values, strengthen democratic institutions, and work collectively to foster an inclusive and prosperous Europe.

By Paul Bumman