In a recent article, the Financial Times (FT) compared the three leading European far-right parties – Germany’s AfD, France’s National Coalition, and Italy’s Fratelli d’Italia. These groups share common characteristics such as strong nationalism, hostility towards immigrants and Islam, and authoritarianism.
One interesting aspect of these parties is that they are led by women or have dominant female figures. Alice Weidel leads the AfD in Germany, Marine Le Pen heads the National Alliance in France, and Giorgia Meloni is the prime minister of Italy and leader of Fratelli d’Italia. This stands out from other European countries where men typically dominate party leadership positions.
While these parties share similarities in their beliefs about nationalism, opposition to minorities, and adherence to traditional values concerning gender roles and family dynamics, they differ in their stances on Russia. For example, Meloni has distanced herself from pro-Russia sentiments and has advocated for supporting Ukraine in EU contexts. Le Pen has been known for her pro-Russia stance but has recently changed her views. The AfD in Germany has faced criticism for alleged financial ties to Russia and China, creating a scandal within the party.
As leaders of these parties vary in their opinions regarding EU positions, there is no clear consensus among them regarding how they would approach issues related to the eurozone or membership within the European Union. While Weidel has hinted at Germany potentially leaving the euro and the EU altogether, Meloni and Le Pen have softened their criticism of the EU in recent years. Meloni has been particularly vocal in criticizing the European Central Bank’s monetary policies as she believes that they are hurting Italian businesses and citizens.
In terms of alliances during upcoming European elections, speculation arises around whether France’s National Coalition could join forces with Italy’s Fratelli d’Italia under a joint ECR group membership or if it will remain part of the ID group like its German counterpart –
