In Hungary, Viktor Orbán’s stance and the influence of Mateusz Morawiecki’s Poland, along with the Czech Republic under Petr Fiala, have become talking points in European political discourse. France has seen a surge from the National Rally, a party known for its anti-immigration stance, while Sweden contends with a similar political shift from the Sweden Democrats. In this climate, voices call for restraint and prudent judgment in the use of bailout funds by European institutions, which remain cautious about how the rise of far-right movements in Italy could affect issues such as the rule of law, asylum policies, and the reforms demanded in return for financial support.
One leader offered a pragmatic approach: any democratic government willing to cooperate would work together. Mentions of Hungary and Poland were made in reference to the potential consequences if economic or political tensions rise, and a high-ranking European official emphasized that European institutions must uphold fundamental human rights and abortion rights, while avoiding the celebration of the far right’s electoral victories. This stance was echoed in discussions on BFMTV, underscoring a belief that a measured response is needed from the main European institutions and the major political families in the European Parliament.
A Spanish foreign minister later described the current moment as one of uncertainty where populism tends to matter. Observers note that populist movements often offer simple, short-term answers to complex problems, a pattern criticized by many who fear consequences for stability and policy coherence across member states.
applause from the far right
Support for far-right movements has intensified in several potential member states aligned with Italian leadership. In Hungary and in Poland, congratulatory messages highlighted the importance of friends who share a common vision for Europe’s challenges. The political discourse in Hungary emphasized strong lines about what Europe can expect from a government backed by far-right forces in the eurozone’s third-largest economy.
Leaders in Slovakia and the Czech Republic extended congratulations to Giorgia Meloni, the Polish prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki, and Petr Fiala, who holds the rotating presidency of the EU. The messages underscored a sense of solidarity among like-minded groups across Europe, signaling a shift in alliances within the European Conservatives and Reformers group. A representative statement praised Meloni’s victory in European elections and expressed anticipation for future cooperation in European politics and within the ECR framework.
Abascal and Le Pen
The French far right offered praise, arguing that the Italian electorate demonstrated a form of democratic humility in the face of external pressures. The discourse suggested that no threat could stop democracy as peoples across Europe claimed a greater say in their political destinies. A French MEP connected to the far right and a party leader echoed the sentiment, emphasizing a sovereign path for Europe and national self-determination.
From the sidelines, supporters of Meloni maintained a close relationship with allied groups. A party aligned with Santiago Abascal celebrated the Italian victory with nuanced messages, insisting that Italy represents a new Europe for nations that value autonomy. The party asserted that the people would decide their future without interference from oligarchs, championing a message of national sovereignty and unity among like-minded movements.