The Rise of Far-Right Movements in Eastern Europe: Causes, Trends, and Examples
In Europe, especially in Eastern Europe, there is a growing presence of far-right movements. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this phenomenon. The formation of these movements in Eastern Europe began in the mid-1980s, leading up to the fall of communism. By 1990, radical right parties emerged as an electoral force. After the fall of communism, we saw parties like Poland’s LPR, Hungary’s MIEP, Romania’s PRM, and Slovakia’s SNS gain some recognition. Today, far-right parties hold approximately 10-20% of the seats in parliament.
Two main trends characterize these far-right parties:
- Ethno-nationalist xenophobia: This involves a fear of losing national identity, including heritage, language, and faith, often fueled by anxieties about immigration and cultural change.
- Anti-political establishment sentiment: These parties often present themselves as champions of the people, opposing the perceived corruption and elitism of traditional political institutions.
The spread of far-right movements in Eastern Europe is linked to factors like social isolation and a decline in social capital. These factors contribute to a sense of alienation and vulnerability, making people more susceptible to the appeals of far-right parties.
Rydgren, in his article, identifies three key factors that foster extreme right-wing movements:
- Weakening of traditional social structures: The diminished role of family, community, professional organizations, and civil society leaves individuals feeling disconnected from the social order.
- Shift from a pluralist to a populist society: This involves a decline in the emphasis on individual rights and a rise in the idea that the majority should hold power.
- Formation of alternative social networks: In response to social isolation, individuals may seek out new communities, which can include far-right parties.
Rydgren’s analysis draws on the mass society theory, which suggests that a loss of community can lead to a desire for new ideologies that provide a sense of belonging. This desire for community is often exploited by far-right movements.
Hungary and Slovakia offer compelling examples of the rise of far-right parties. In Hungary, the far-right party Jobbik, with the motto “A future for a better Hungary,” promotes a strong nationalist agenda, prioritizing Hungarian interests and opposing immigration. They are also anti-LGBTQ+ and advocate for increased government spending on ethnic Hungarians living abroad.
In Slovakia, the People’s Party – Our Slovakia is known for its anti-Roma, anti-American stance and has even labeled NATO a “criminal organization.” The party’s leader has expressed admiration for an individual responsible for sending tens of thousands to concentration camps during World War II.
Both Jobbik and the People’s Party – Our Slovakia have gained influence by securing seats in parliament. Jobbik, which started with 2% of the vote in 2006, now holds 20%. In Slovakia, the party won 8% of the seats in the 2016 parliamentary elections.
Rydgren’s second argument focuses on the decline of pluralist society and the rise of populism. This gap between the people and the elite, coupled with the decline of pluralist society, creates fertile ground for populist movements. Populism emphasizes the will of the people and often rejects the checks and balances of liberal democracy.
The immigration crisis in Europe has significantly contributed to the rise of far-right parties. Anti-immigration sentiment has spread across Europe, and far-right parties have capitalized on this by promoting nationalist platforms. Both Jobbik and the People’s Party – Our Slovakia reject refugees, often promoting Islamophobia and fear of cultural change.
Hungary, according to the BBC, has the highest proportion of refugees relative to its population. This has fueled anxieties and a desire for isolation, further strengthening the appeal of far-right parties. Prime Minister Orban has openly declared that Muslim asylum seekers are unwelcome in Hungary, arguing that he is defending European Christianity against a Muslim influx. In Slovakia, the Slovak Prime Minister has stated that Muslims cannot be integrated into Europe.
To counter social isolation, far-right parties often promote ethnic reductionism, blaming minority groups for social problems. In Hungary, Jobbik, according to Varga, attempts to mobilize anti-Roma sentiment, presenting itself as a party concerned with economic issues like poverty and inequality, while blaming Roma for these problems. This strategy allows them to promote their nationalist agenda and scapegoat minority groups.
Hungary and Slovakia, while both experiencing the rise of far-right parties, have some key differences. Hungary has progressed further in terms of anti-Semitic rhetoric and seeks to eliminate the Central European University. Slovakia, on the other hand, is attempting to work with the EU to address the influx of refugees. Hungary has a stronger anti-immigrant stance, while Slovakia focuses more on domestic issues like healthcare and education.
According to the Hlavek reading, the Smer party in Slovakia performs better in districts with high unemployment and low education levels. This highlights the disconnect between the elite and the people, fueling frustration and a sense of alienation.
The rise of far-right movements in post-communist countries is influenced by several factors, including:
- Communist era legacy: The legacy of communist rule can contribute to a sense of distrust in institutions and a desire for change.
- Previous ethnic issues: Historical ethnic tensions can be exploited by far-right parties to promote their nationalist agendas.
- Religious issues: Religious differences, particularly in the context of immigration, can be used to fuel fear and division.
- Economic disparities: Economic inequality and unemployment can create fertile ground for populist movements that promise economic solutions.
- Previous far-right movements: The existence of previous far-right movements can provide a foundation for new ones to build upon.
The rise of far-right movements in Eastern Europe is a complex phenomenon with deep roots in social, political, and economic factors. Understanding these factors is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by these movements and promoting a more inclusive and tolerant society.