The recent European Union elections have cemented a long-standing fear on the continent, as far-right parties made unprecedented gains across the bloc, shocking both onlookers and voters alike..
Europeans fear this political will put forward stricter immigration limitations and an authoritarian approach to asylum policies, greatly impacting migrants in Europe.
National Rally (France)
Advocating for a more nationalist foreign policy is Marine Le Pen’s National Rally’s main aim. By reducing the number of asylum seekers accepted into France and enhancing border security, they seek to implement stricter immigration controls.
They also look forward to prioritizing French nationals for jobs and social services, notably reinforcing regulations around residency permits and family reunification.
Alternative for Germany (AfD)
The AfD highlights their goal to enforce stricter foreign notions and reduce the number of migrants entering Germany, suggesting procedures to accelerate deportations and restrict possible benefits available to migrants, supporting their “Germany first” approach to social and economic regulations.
They intend to tighten the country’s borders and increase military spending while advocating for a foreign policy that prioritizes national interests.
Fratelli d’Italia (Brothers of Italy)
Just like Germany’s AfD, Fratelli d’Italia aspires to take direct measures to expedite immigrant deportations and limit social aid for migrants/foreign residents, all in order to prioritize Italian citizens’ access to jobs and public services.
National control is among the first goals of this conservative party, calling for a more “realistic” foreign policy that favors bilateral agreements over EU-wide strategies.
They seek to renegotiate Italy’s commitments within the EU while reducing its huge influence on national policies and strengthening ties with other countries outside of the EU.
Vox (Spain)
Vox also backs up the deportation of illegal immigrants and the suspension of the Schengen Agreement to re-establish border checks within the European Union. They aim to reduce the number of legal immigrants and tighten asylum criteria, focusing on integrating immigrants who share Spanish cultural values.
Freedom Party (Austria)
The Freedom Party plans to implement a zero-tolerance policy on illegal immigration, increase deportations, and reduce the social benefits available to immigrants. They advocate for a points-based immigration system that favors skilled workers and tighter border controls.
These far-right parties have increased their representation in the European Parliament and are expected to call for significant changes in immigration policies and the EU’s foreign relations stance, reflecting their nationalist and conservative agendas.
