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