German Chancellor Olaf Scholz issued a warning against the rise of right-wing populists in Europe ahead of the upcoming European Parliament elections in June. Speaking at a conference of centre-left European parties in Bucharest, Scholz highlighted the threats posed by those who seek to undermine the unity and progress of the European Union.
Scholz expressed concerns about the growing influence of right-wing populists who are campaigning against a united Europe, targeting refugees and minorities. He emphasized the importance of a prosperous and effective EU as the best response to counter populism and autocrats. The Chancellor also reaffirmed Germany’s support for Ukraine as a key player in maintaining peace in Europe.
Opinion polls suggest a shift towards the right in the upcoming elections, with the radical right Identity and Democracy group expected to gain seats and challenge the traditional centrist parties. Scholz leads a coalition government that is currently facing challenges in national polls, with the center-right opposition bloc and the far-right Alternative for Germany party making significant gains.
The conference in Bucharest follows a meeting of the EU’s largest political party, the European People’s Party, where Ursula von der Leyen was endorsed for a second term as head of the European Commission. Nicolas Schmit from Luxembourg was chosen as the lead candidate for the Socialists and Democrats group to take on a top role in Brussels. The upcoming elections will have a significant impact on the future direction of the EU, with the need for strong leadership to address the challenges posed by rising populism and maintain the unity of the European project.
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