Garčević Explores the Rise of Far-Right Forces in Europe

Ambassador Vesko Garčević, Professor of the Practice of International Relations at Boston University’s Pardee School of Global Studies, recently shared his insights in an interview with Montenegro’s oldest daily, Pobjeda.

During the discussion on the Netherlands’ parliamentary elections, he emphasized the potential consequences of far-right victories on the EU enlargement process. Garčević expressed apprehension about Geert Wilders’ success, categorizing him as an extreme-right, anti-Muslim radical. He underscored the unfavorable implications for the Balkans and EU aspirant countries, given the Netherlands’ historical reluctance towards enlargement.

Garčević highlighted a broader trend of extreme right-wing movements in Europe, pointing to the election of Georgia Meloni in Italy, the increasing popularity of Germany’s Alternative for Germany party, and Marine Le Pen’s influential position in France. He cautioned about a potential political upheaval if Le Pen were to win the next elections in France, suggesting,

“Following the election of Georgia Meloni in Italy, the rise of Alternative for Germany, currently the second most popular party in the country, and the robust presence of Marine Le Pen in France, the trajectory indicates a significant shift. If this trend persists, it’s plausible that Le Pen could secure victory in the upcoming French elections, marking the most substantial political earthquake in the EU for decades.”

Garčević also asserted in the interview that the triumph of Geert Wilders serves as additional evidence of the escalating extreme-right surge in Europe.

For a more in-depth analysis, you can read the full interview here.