Macron calls for snap elections amid far-right surge in 2024 EU elections

Image Credits: UnsplashImage Credits: Unsplash
  • The 2024 EU elections saw a significant rise in support for far-right parties, particularly in France, Germany, and Austria.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron has called for snap parliamentary elections to counter the far-right surge and secure a clear majority.
  • The centrist coalition in the European Parliament is projected to maintain its leading role, despite the gains made by populist parties.

The 2024 European Union elections have dramatically reshaped the political landscape, with a notable shift towards the right. French President Emmanuel Macron, facing a significant defeat at the hands of Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN), has announced snap parliamentary elections. This unexpected move aims to secure a clear majority in the French parliament and counter the rising influence of right-wing populism.

The European elections saw a substantial increase in support for far-right parties across several EU member states. In France, the National Rally secured approximately 32% of the vote, more than doubling the 15% garnered by Macron's Renaissance party. This result has prompted Macron to dissolve the parliament and call for new legislative elections, scheduled for June 30 and July 7.

Macron addressed the nation from the Élysée Palace, stating, "I have heard your message, and I will not let it go unanswered." He emphasized the need for a clear majority to ensure peace and harmony in France, expressing concern over the far-right's progress not only in France but also across the European continent.

The Broader European Context

The shift to the right was not confined to France. Across the EU, far-right and populist parties made significant gains. In Germany, the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) increased its vote share to 16.5%, while in Austria, the Freedom Party (FPÖ) led with 27% of the vote. These results reflect a broader trend of voter frustration over issues such as the cost of living, energy crises, and migration policies.

Despite these gains, the centrist coalition, comprising the European People's Party (EPP), the Socialists and Democrats (S&D), and the liberal Renew group, is projected to maintain its leading role in the European Parliament. This alliance is expected to capture approximately 400 of the 720 available seats, ensuring a continued pro-European majority.

Macron's Gamble

Macron's decision to call snap elections is a significant political gamble. Without a clear majority in the French parliament, passing crucial legislation, such as the upcoming budget, could become increasingly challenging. The snap elections will determine whether Macron's Renaissance party can regain its footing or if the National Rally will solidify its position as the dominant force in French politics.

Marine Le Pen, buoyed by her party's success, has called on the French people to join the National Rally in forming a majority. "I call on the French to come and join us to form a majority around the RN in the service of the only cause that guides our steps: France," she declared in her victory speech.

Implications for the Future

The outcome of the snap elections will have far-reaching implications for France and the broader European Union. A victory for the National Rally could see Marine Le Pen or Jordan Bardella, the party's 28-year-old leader, potentially becoming Prime Minister. This shift could alter France's stance on key issues such as EU integration, migration, and climate policies.

Ursula von der Leyen, the current president of the European Commission, acknowledged the challenges posed by the rise of populist parties. "The centre remains a significant force for a robust Europe, and this is vital for stability," she remarked, highlighting the responsibility of centrist parties to maintain a balanced and stable European Union.

The 2024 European elections have underscored the growing influence of far-right and populist parties across the continent. Emmanuel Macron's call for snap elections is a bold attempt to counter this trend and secure a stable majority in the French parliament. As Europe grapples with these political shifts, the coming months will be crucial in determining the future direction of both France and the European Union.


Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege

Read More

Politics Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
PoliticsJuly 2, 2025 at 9:30:00 AM

Israel agrees to 60-day Gaza ceasefire, Trump pressures Hamas to comply

In announcing Israel’s acceptance of a 60-day ceasefire deal in Gaza, former US President Donald Trump didn’t just highlight a diplomatic breakthrough—he reframed...

Economy Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyJuly 2, 2025 at 9:00:00 AM

Opec+ output policy signals market share realignment

Oil prices rose modestly this week, with Brent crude closing at US$67.11 a barrel and West Texas Intermediate at US$65.45. On the surface,...

Loans Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
LoansJuly 2, 2025 at 9:00:00 AM

Dave Ramsey’s take on the student loan debt problem

Dave Ramsey has built a media empire on one core message: debt is bad, and anyone carrying it should get rid of it—fast....

Small Business Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
Small BusinessJuly 2, 2025 at 9:00:00 AM

How tech budgets drive small business growth

In a world where small businesses are expected to do more with less, the difference between growth and stagnation may come down to...

Dining Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
DiningJuly 2, 2025 at 9:00:00 AM

Why wine bottles have an indent at the bottom

There’s a small ritual in opening a bottle of wine. You twist, uncork, and maybe smile at the soft pop that follows. What’s...

Housing Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
HousingJuly 2, 2025 at 1:00:00 AM

Is spending half your salary on rent in Singapore a mistake—or just reality for expats?

When Reddit user u/Internal-Parking7010 asked whether it was “financially reckless” to spend nearly half her monthly salary on rent in Singapore, she probably...

Health & Wellness Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
Health & WellnessJuly 2, 2025 at 1:00:00 AM

How liver health and daily habits are connected

Everyone talks about detox like it’s a product. But your body already has one built-in: the liver. It filters, processes, and clears almost...

Economy Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyJuly 1, 2025 at 6:00:00 PM

How the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz are rewriting global trade risk

Geopolitics has re-entered the waterways with force. The Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz—two of the world’s most critical maritime corridors—are no...

Health & Wellness Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
Health & WellnessJuly 1, 2025 at 5:30:00 PM

Minimalism linked to improved mental health, according to experts

A drawer that opens smoothly. A shelf free from overstuffed regrets. A corner that feels like exhale. These aren’t just design choices—they’re signals...

Culture Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
CultureJuly 1, 2025 at 5:30:00 PM

Why Singapore’s 2025 tech graduates are facing a tougher job market

A post on the Singapore subreddit over the weekend captured the quiet anxiety rippling through this year’s crop of computer science graduates. “Are...

Tax Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
TaxJuly 1, 2025 at 5:30:00 PM

GOP tax bill impact by income group raises equity concerns

A major Republican-led legislative package now moving through the US Senate promises broad tax relief and fiscal reform—but for many working Americans, especially...

Culture Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
CultureJuly 1, 2025 at 5:30:00 PM

The strategic advantage of welcoming employees back

Companies spend months sourcing, interviewing, and onboarding talent. But once someone leaves, the system assumes the door shuts permanently. There’s often no designed...

Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege
Load More
Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege