The 2024 European Parliament elections, held from June 6 to 9, marked a significant shift in the EU’s political landscape. While the center-right European People’s Party (EPP) maintained its position as the largest group with 188 seats, there was a notable surge in support for far-right and nationalist parties. The newly formed Patriots for Europe (PfE) secured 84 seats, becoming the third-largest group, and the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) gained 78 seats.
This rightward shift in the European Parliament reflects broader trends in global politics, particularly the resurgence of populist movements. The election of Donald Trump as U.S. President in 2024 has emboldened European far-right leaders, who see his victory as a validation of their own agendas. Figures like Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have sought to strengthen ties with the Trump administration, aligning on issues such as immigration and national sovereignty.
The convergence of these developments suggests a growing challenge to traditional centrist and pro-EU forces. The influence of Trump’s policies and rhetoric may further impact EU dynamics, especially in areas like trade, defense, and foreign policy. As the EU navigates this evolving political environment, the interplay between domestic shifts and international influences will be crucial in shaping its future direction.