With the rise of far-right parties in Europe and the global surge in populism, Dr. WU Baiyi (Former Director of the Institute of European Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences; iGCU Academic Committee Member) reckons that the“rightward shift”in European politics may become more evident in the future.
Dr. Wu explained that Europe’s complex structural challenges, compounded by a sluggish economy and intensifying social tensions, have led to growing public dissatisfication with the status quo. As a result, many people are turning towards non-mainstream parties in hopes of achieving change. He further points out that the policy proposals of far-right parties reflect the urgent demand among many Europeans for“overcompensation”to address problems stemming from progressive policies promoted by establishment parties across Europe, including development disparities, debt risk, social welfare, and migration management.
Dr. Wu advocates for the critical assessment of the influence of far-right parties’rise in Europe, noting that although it might adversely affect Europe’s openness, it could also prompt Europeans to adopt a more rational understanding of their own position. This shift may challenge the conceited attitudes of“white liberal supremacy,”help Europe find the right direction for strategic autonomy in the midst of competition and crises, and lead Europeans out of the quagmire of decline. In doing so, Europe could emerge as a more constructive global force.
To read Dr. Wu’s op-ed in Chinese, please visit: https://bit.ly/3YZn4Td
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