The upcoming 2024 European Parliament elections are showing a significant shift in political dynamics. Recent polling indicates a surge in support for right-wing and euroskeptic parties.
This trend suggests a change in the European political landscape. The right-wing Identity & Democracy faction is projected to gain 40 seats, becoming the third-largest group in the Parliament.
Similarly, the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group is expected to grow considerably.
Despite these changes, current pro-European forces, including the European People’s Party (EPP), Socialists & Democrats (S&D), and Renew Europe, could still maintain a majority.
However, the increase in right-leaning MEPs is likely to shift the Parliament’s focus away from liberal agendas.
This shift will impact the EPP’s control over key decisions, such as choosing the next Commission president.
Gains from specific parties drive the rise in conservative support.
For instance, the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party contributes significantly to the ECR’s growth.
The Alternative for Germany’s (AfD) surge in popularity is partly fueling the rise of the national Identity and Democracy group.
This rightward shift mirrors broader trends seen in national elections across Europe.
Countries like Italy, Finland, and Greece are increasingly favoring conservative and hard-right parties.
However, expectations indicate that the S&D group will gain seats, preserving its position as the second-largest group in Parliament.
This political change may affect various EU policies, including those on climate and foreign affairs.
There’s also a possibility of increased pro-Russia representation, with parties like the Bulgarian Revival Party set to win seats.
Europeans will vote from June 6–9 next year to select 705 MEPs to represent them in Brussels.
These elections are crucial, as they will determine the direction of the European Union on various important issues.