The European Union, a symbol of unity and cooperation, faces increasing internal challenges as several member states experience rising euroscepticism. The push to leave the EU isn’t merely grassroots but is increasingly driven by political figures capitalizing on national discontent. This article explores countries where desire to exit the EU is gaining traction and profiles key leaders driving these movements.
Italy: The Rising Tide of “Italexit”
Italy has emerged as one of the most significant countries where anti-EU sentiment is growing. The economic struggles exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic have led many Italians to question the benefits of EU membership. A poll found that nearly half of Italians would consider leaving the EU if Brexit proves beneficial to the UK, signaling a substantial portion of the population is open to “Italexit.” This sentiment has been further fueled by the rise of nationalist and populist parties, like the one led by former journalist Gianluigi Paragone, who explicitly advocate for Italy’s exit from the EU. The “Italexit” movement has gained momentum, with former journalist and politician Gianluigi Paragone at the helm. Paragone, a former member of the anti-establishment Five Star Movement, launched the Italexit party in 2020, inspired by Brexit. He argues that Italy’s EU membership has caused economic hardship, especially following the austerity measures imposed by Brussels. Paragone’s rhetoric strikes a chord with Italians who believe the EU neglected Italy’s economic struggles, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
France: Euroscepticism on the Rise
In France, euroscepticism has risen, partly due to dissatisfaction with the EU’s handling of economic issues and migration challenges. The National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen, has long championed a France-first approach, opposing the EU’s centralized policies. Although a full exit (“Frexit”) is less popular than in Italy, there is still a significant portion of the population that is increasingly skeptical of the EU, particularly if Brexit is seen as a success. Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally (formerly the National Front), is one of the most prominent eurosceptic figures in Europe. Although Le Pen has softened her stance on a full “Frexit” in recent years, she remains a fierce critic of the EU’s policies, particularly regarding immigration and economic regulation. Le Pen’s platform emphasizes “France first” policies, advocating for stronger national sovereignty and reduced influence from Brussels. She has significantly garnered support from French voters who are dissatisfied with the EU’s handling of economic and social issues.
Poland and Hungary: Challenging European Norms
Poland and Hungary have clashed with the EU over issues like judicial reforms and adherence to the rule of law. Both countries resist EU pressure to conform to democratic norms, raising speculation they might consider leaving if conflicts escalate. While neither country has a mainstream exit movement, ongoing tension with Brussels shows a growing divide with the EU’s principles.
Jarosław Kaczyński, the leader of Poland’s ruling Law and Justice Party (PiS), has been a vocal critic of the EU, particularly concerning issues of national sovereignty and judicial independence. Kaczyński and his party have clashed with Brussels over reforms that critics argue undermine the rule of law in Poland. Although Kaczyński hasn’t explicitly supported “Polexit,” his rhetoric and policies indicate a deepening rift between Poland and the EU. The PiS’s resistance to EU pressure reflects broader Polish discontent, with many feeling EU’s influence over national affairs is excessive.
Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, leader of the Fidesz party, is another prominent figure challenging the EU’s authority. Orbán has positioned himself as a defender of “illiberal democracy” and has consistently opposed EU policies on migration, media freedom, and the judiciary. Like Kaczyński, Orbán hasn’t called for a full EU exit but uses eurosceptic rhetoric to strengthen his domestic political support. Orbán’s defiance of EU norms and his emphasis on national sovereignty have made him a central figure in the ongoing debate about the future of the EU.
Netherlands: Geert Wilders and the Party for Freedom
The Netherlands, traditionally a pro-EU country, has seen a rise in eurosceptic sentiment, particularly from right-wing parties. The Dutch are increasingly critical of EU bureaucracy and the financial costs associated with membership. While a “Nexit” remains unlikely in the near term, the increasing popularity of european sceptic parties suggests that the idea of leaving the EU could gain traction, especially if economic conditions worsen or if the EU imposes policies perceived as unfavorable to Dutch interests. In the Netherlands, Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), is a staunch critic of the EU. Wilders advocates “Nexit,” arguing the Netherlands would be better outside the EU, benefiting from regained national control and sovereignty. His platform opposes EU immigration policies, criticizes multiculturalism, and seeks to regain control over Dutch borders and national laws. Though the Dutch public remains cautious about leaving, Wilders’ influence has kept the “Nexit” debate alive in political discourse.
Reasons Behind the Growing Euroscepticism
The driving forces behind these movements are multifaceted:
- Economic Discontent: Many of these countries feel frustrated with the EU’s economic policies, believing they have not adequately addressed their specific needs, particularly in the wake of financial crises.
- Sovereignty and Nationalism: People increasingly desire to reclaim national sovereignty and reduce the influence of EU institutions, which they often see as distant and unaccountable.
- Migration Policies: EU-wide migration policies have been a major point of contention, particularly in countries like Italy and Hungary, where there is significant opposition to the EU’s approach to handling immigration.
The European Union faces significant challenges as it navigates this wave of european scepticism. While an immediate collapse of the EU is unlikely, the growing discontent in several member states poses a real threat to its cohesion. The 2024 European elections and the outcomes of ongoing political battles in countries like Italy, France, Poland, and Hungary could be decisive in determining whether the EU continues to integrate or begins to fragment.
As these countries navigate their EU futures, the bloc must address dissatisfaction to maintain unity and prevent further exits.