In the recently concluded European Parliament elections, far-right parties made significant gains, signaling a rightward shift across the continent. While the impact on EU policies may not be drastic, these results highlight the changing dynamics within individual member states.

One prominent example of the consequences of the rightward shift is in France, where President Emmanuel Macron has called for a snap parliamentary election due to his party's poor performance. Meanwhile, Germany witnessed the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) winning more seats than Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats.

Although the rise of far-right parties is not surprising to those closely following European politics, it is important to note that the shift to the right has been occurring in more complex ways beyond the success of a few extreme parties in the Parliament. The rightward push is also driven by centrist politicians adopting conservative stances on migration, recognizing its significance as a voter concern.

In addition to immigration, other major issues driving the right's success include the economy, cost of living, defense, and the environment. The far-right has capitalized on environmental policies, leveraging protests by European farmers, particularly in France and Germany, who expressed concerns about the economic impact of climate change policies.

Analyzing the composition of the European Parliament, two right-associated groups, Identity and Democracy (ID) and European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), now hold a combined total of 131 seats, an increase of 15 from the previous election. Unaffiliated parties, including Hungary's far-right Fidesz, will also hold 100 seats. Centrist parties, such as Renew Europe (Renew) and the largest party, the center-right European People's Party (EPP), still maintain the majority of seats, but the rise of far-right groups may grant them more influence over EU budget and defense policies.

The ascendancy of the right in Europe follows a global trend of increasing authoritarianism and non-democratic movements. Over the past 15 years, right-wing parties have steadily gained influence, as they have sought to position themselves as more acceptable and appeal to a broader range of voters.

It is important to recognize that elections often serve as rejections of incumbent parties, especially during times of economic struggle. Rising inflation and energy costs have contributed to voters rebuking centrist and left-leaning policies that may seem ineffective in addressing daily cost-of-living expenses.

The right's success in the European Parliament elections does not necessarily indicate control or a sudden shift in policy. However, over time, policy changes may occur, particularly regarding climate change, migration, and to some extent, defense.

Brexit serves as a cautionary tale for far-right parties, discouraging them from advocating for EU dissolution. Instead, most European far-right parties aim to exert influence from within the EU, except for Hungary's Viktor Orbán and his Fidesz party.

The war in Ukraine has also diminished the likelihood of countries breaking away from the union, as the need for collective security against external threats such as Russia becomes more evident. Consequently, the far right is poised to reshape EU policy rather than advocating for dissolution.

Despite their electoral gains, far-right parties may find it challenging to form strong coalitions within the European Parliament due to their nation-specific concerns and policies. This could hinder their ability to enact substantial changes collectively.

Looking ahead, countries like France and Germany experience a significant impact from the rightward shift. The victory of France's National Rally raises concerns about increased far-right legislators in the National Assembly, potentially positioning the party for success in the next election.

Similarly, in Germany, the AfD has become the second most powerful party in the Parliament, despite recent scandals and protests. While a bloc-wide shift to the right is apparent, it is crucial to consider alternative solutions to address the underlying issues driving this political transformation.

The European Parliament elections not only reflect the changing dynamics within member states but also anticipate potential shifts in national politics in the years to come.