By Dr. Nidal Shoukeir
In recent years, many predicted a significant rise of far-right parties on the European political scene, with the majority of observers believing that such a rise was only a matter of time. Indeed, the recent European elections in June confirmed this prediction, with far-right parties achieving results described as historic. These parties topped the European election results in France, Italy, and Austria, and came in second place in Germany and the Netherlands.
This rise was expected for various reasons, primarily the issues of migration and security, the war in Ukraine, and, of course, the difficult economic situation on a continent burdened with numerous challenges. However, in my opinion, there is another reason behind the remarkable surge of far-right parties, and that reason is undoubtedly “Giorgia Meloni.” This strong and pivotal figure has intelligently positioned herself on the European political stage as a modern and effective model of the far-right.
Whether one supports Giorgia Meloni or opposes her, it is necessary to acknowledge the role played by the leader of the “Fratelli d’Italia” party in bringing about a significant and radical shift in the trajectory and future of far-right parties in Europe. This shift is now so palpable that we can speak of a “pre-Giorgia Meloni” and a “post-Giorgia Meloni” era. While the rise of far-right parties in Europe began before Meloni’s emergence, they were often viewed negatively, perceived as dangerous, marginalized factions, and categorized as populist and deviant political movements without a clear political vision.
This dark reality is something Italy’s Prime Minister has succeeded in transforming significantly in a short period of time. Her success is evident in closing that bleak chapter and opening a bright new one that has given hope for a new path for far-right forces in Europe. With remarkable shrewdness and intelligence, the “strong lady of Rome” implemented three strategic and decisive steps that shifted the trajectory of far-right parties from the depths of obscurity into the light.
First, and contrary to all expectations, Giorgia Meloni’s government in Italy, despite being branded as far-right, has managed to present a model of governance that was “normal” and acceptable. It was realistic, clear, and close to the concerns of the people, breaking the stereotypical image of far-right parties as disconnected and incapable of governing. What sets Meloni apart is her pragmatic and serious approach to political matters, avoiding the populism and unrealistic promises typically associated with far-right parties. Although some may argue that effective governance is expected from any leader in office, Meloni’s achievement is notable for its ability to reshape public perceptions. Her “normal” and practical governance has resonated with voters beyond Italy, helping to dismantle the long-standing taboo around far-right parties holding power. For many European voters, Meloni’s success has shown that far-right leadership does not necessarily result in chaos or instability.
The second step taken by the daughter of the “Garbatella” district was to craft a new, modern, and acceptable identity for her party, which has “fascist roots,” contrasting with the extremist, hateful, and demagogic image traditionally associated with far-right parties. Meloni, fully aware of her past, insisted that fascism is an ideology of the past and no longer relevant in today’s world. She intelligently and carefully introduced a new political identity she proudly embraces—conservative, Christian, and nationalistic—with the main pillars being “God, homeland, and family.” This positive transformation in identity, even if not entirely genuine as some suggest, has had a noticeable impact and garnered acceptance among the European public, helping to soften the negative perception of some far-right parties.
Finally, Giorgia Meloni’s third significant step has been her rapid integration into both domestic and international political systems. A self-proclaimed fan of fantasy and fiction, Meloni swiftly and realistically secured an accepted place for herself and her party within the traditional political structures, not only in Italy but also across Europe and the world. A lover of the epic “The Lord of the Rings,” Meloni quickly understood that there was no alternative to integrating into the existing system. She worked hard and diligently, steering clear of the far-right’s unrealistic slogans. She skillfully leveraged her position as Italy’s Prime Minister to demonstrate domestic integration, while also utilizing Italy’s strength and standing to ensure external integration. Although some might view this step as ordinary, I believe it is crucial, as it has had a profound impact on citizens across Europe, breaking down the walls of fear and apprehension regarding far-right parties in power.
Today, Giorgia Meloni’s political journey is far from “ordinary.” The impact of her actions has not only affected her personally and her party but has also influenced far-right parties across Europe. Thanks to what many call the “charm of Giorgia Meloni,” these parties are currently experiencing an unprecedented golden age in their history. In this context, history will always remember that it was the “charm of Giorgia Meloni” that swept across Europe and opened the gates of political power wide for far-right forces, giving them the opportunity to move from the realm of fantasy to the real world.
Niccolò Machiavelli once said, “One change always leaves the way open for the establishment of another.” This is something the “strong lady of Rome” knows well. Throughout her journey, she has provided the far-right parties with everything they need to continue the change she initiated with the “Fratelli d’Italia” experiment. The question now is: will these parties seize the “charm of Giorgia Meloni,” or will they chart a different course?
The author is France based Professor of Strategic Communications and Governmental Relations.
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