European Election Takeaways: Far-right Surge and Macron’s Gamble



European voters have participated in a significant democratic exercise to elect members of the European Parliament for the next five years. Over 360 million eligible voters from 27 member states took part, with a turnout of over 50%. While far-right parties saw a surge in popular support in countries like France, Germany, and Italy, the center-left and center-right political groupings remain the largest in the EU Parliament.

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a snap parliamentary election following his party’s lower vote share compared to the right-wing National Rally party. In Italy, the far-right Brothers of Italy party quadrupled its vote share, while in Germany, the far-right Alternative for Germany party made significant gains. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán claimed victory, facing growing opposition from a new party led by Peter Magyar.

Green and left-wing parties made gains in Nordic countries, but faced challenges in other parts of Europe where progressive climate policies were met with protests. Despite these results, the center-left and center-right blocs continue to dominate the EU Parliament, with the EU Green Deal facing scrutiny in light of recent events.