Right-Wing Populism in the Decade Since Brexit
Right-wing populist parties in Europe have surged since Brexit in 2016, gaining seats in France, Germany, and Italy, while distrust in political elites remains high across the continent. Surveys show widespread frustration with elected officials, with majorities in nine of ten surveyed countries believing leaders ignore public opinion.
The 2016 Brexit vote marked a turning point for right-wing populism in Europe, with parties tapping into anti-establishment sentiment and concerns over immigration. In France, Marine Le Pen’s National Rally grew from two seats in 2016 to 123 in the National Assembly, while Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) became the second-largest party with 150 seats. Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, leading the Brothers of Italy party, became prime minister in 2022, and Nigel Farage’s Reform UK now has 32% favorability in Britain, matching the UKIP’s 2016 ratings. "Right-wing populists have also shaped politics in the Netherlands and Poland, though setbacks like Hungary’s Fidesz losing elections in April show mixed results. Despite fluctuations, these parties have permanently altered Europe’s political landscape, with upcoming elections in France, Greece, Italy, Poland, Spain, and Sweden likely to determine their future influence. "Frustration with political elites drives much of this support, as surveys reveal majorities in nine of ten European countries believe elected officials ignore public opinion. In 2023, over 70% in Spain, Greece, Hungary, Italy, France, the UK, and Poland said officials do not care about ordinary people. A 2025 survey found few Europeans trust leaders to be honest, ethical, or focused on key issues. "Economic struggles, cultural grievances, and anger at the political class have fueled this trend, with populist movements framing themselves as defenders of ‘the people’ against corrupt elites. While some parties face setbacks, their lasting impact on European politics remains undeniable, reshaping governance and public discourse across the continent.
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