As we approach the European Parliament elections on June 9, the political landscape in Ireland, Austria, and the Netherlands is undergoing significant shifts. The rise of far-right parties in these countries is a response to public dissatisfaction with mainstream parties’ handling of key issues such as immigration, housing, and the cost of living since the last EU election in 2019.
Ireland
In Ireland, the upcoming European elections coincide with local elections, serving as a barometer of public sentiment ahead of a future general election. The country has experienced frustration over issues like housing shortages, rising prices, and homelessness, leading to a shift in voter preferences towards parties like Sinn Féin.
Furthermore, the emergence of anti-immigration sentiments in Ireland, once uncommon in the country, has added a new dimension to the political landscape. Far-right groups have exploited concerns around asylum seekers, leading to protests and even violent incidents.
With Sinn Féin’s base potentially losing ground to independent figures and fringe parties with anti-immigration agendas, the upcoming elections could see a realignment of political forces in Ireland.
Austria
In Austria, the far-right Freedom Party is experiencing a resurgence, capitalizing on public frustration with the government’s handling of inflation, the crisis in Ukraine, and immigration issues. The party’s strong stance on immigration and opposition to EU support for Ukraine have resonated with a significant portion of the Austrian electorate.
The upcoming EU elections in Austria are expected to see the FPÖ make significant gains, potentially doubling its MEP count and influencing the national election later this year. The ruling ÖVP and the SPÖ are facing challenges following internal conflicts and scandals, paving the way for the FPÖ’s resurgence.
The Netherlands
In the Netherlands, coalition talks and domestic political uncertainties are overshadowing the EU elections. Geert Wilders’s PVV, a far-right and Eurosceptic party, is predicted to emerge as the largest Dutch party in the European Parliament, a significant shift from previous elections.
The political earthquake in the Netherlands, sparked by immigration debates and the fallout from a government collapse, has created a climate of widespread discontent. Issues like housing shortages and loss of trust in mainstream politics have fueled support for parties like the PVV, challenging the traditional political landscape.
Switzerland and Liechtenstein
Switzerland and Liechtenstein, while not EU members, are closely tied to the bloc and are influenced by European politics. Both countries have experienced their own dynamics, with Switzerland grappling with far-right opposition to EU agreements and Liechtenstein maintaining conservative traditions while integrating with the EU single market.
Despite their unique positions, both countries face challenges related to Euroscepticism, concerns about EU integration, and navigating complex political landscapes shaped by domestic and European factors.
Prospects
As the European Parliament elections approach, the rise of far-right parties in western Europe poses a new challenge to the liberal democratic system. The mainstreaming of far-right politics in countries like Ireland, Austria, and the Netherlands signals a shift in the political landscape that could have far-reaching implications for future governance and coalition building.
After the elections on June 9, the political landscape in western Europe may see further changes as far-right parties exert greater influence and reshape traditional political alliances.