Europe once again faces a choice between a positive vision of centrism or the division, fear and anger of extreme currents. The outcome of the European Parliament elections in June left this debate far from over.
Although the new right is gaining strength in some places, overall, the balance of power in Europe remains the same. But while there does not seem to be a great hunger for populism and extremism in Europe, there are deep and real grievances that too many people feel have not been sufficiently addressed by the political center.
Extremist and populist parties exploit real fears and frustrations - they don't invent them. They identify and amplify them, using the fact that they dominate dissatisfied public opinion. The strength of the New Right does not come from the quality of their ideas - in fact, their simplistic solutions are doomed to failure. Rather, their strength comes from their ability to understand and highlight people's concerns.
Whether it's the changes that migration can bring to national identity, layoffs caused by technological advances, or the rising cost of living, people's fears are real and understandable. The problem is not those who go to the polls driven by these fears and vote for someone they think understands them. The problem is how to communicate the centrist message more effectively.
Centrism can win the debate with arguments - it has solutions to the complex challenges facing Europe today. But its proponents must first convince a large portion of the public that they genuinely understand those fears.
In his first victory speech, French President Emmanuel Macron said: "I will do everything to ensure that you never again have a reason to vote for extremists." That should be a centrist rallying cry. The challenge is to offer voters a clear alternative, as well as connect with their real concerns about the future. Because, as recent events in France have shown, even effective and bold reforms may not be enough if they are not convincing.
Only when we truly understand the pain people feel can we work toward solutions that offer the two key things centrists bring to politics - hope and pragmatism.
Centrism is inherently hopeful for the future, for our collective ability to change the trajectory of society and tackle the most complex problems. It should embrace a liberal patriotism that combines both love of country and commitment to liberal democratic values, along with decisive action toward effective multilateralism and transnationalism—the things that hold our nations together.
If extremists emphasize identity politics, centrism must emphasize the strength of our shared identity, providing a positive national vision for the countries we love and a strong commitment to global solutions.
And while extremists emphasize a simplistic approach, centrists must explain how unworkable the solutions offered by the new right are - and how many people will be worse off.
Centrism in Europe will also have to respond to the competing tensions between greater integration and local identity, globalization and local industry, and threats to security and civil liberties. These tensions exist, and only by seeking an effective balance can politicians truly claim to be pragmatic. And that pragmatism must be focused on real results, initiatives that improve people's lives and have a tangible impact on their daily lives.
Finally, along with the hope and pragmatism that are natural to centrism, it must also offer a clear vision on key issues - something that is already happening with the digital and green transformation. There is no room for compromise between right and left or seeking consensus based on the lowest common denominator. A strong centrist politics sets a clear path to taking over the future.
So, as we reflect on the results of this summer's elections and draw lessons from them, it is time for European centrists to look ahead. The answer to the rise of the illiberal right will not come from the illiberal left. And while our friends from the mainstream right and left may be tempted to pander to the extremes, it is the centrists who must stand firm.
Social Democrats or conservatives may find that alliances with the extremes of the political spectrum will benefit them more. But they must resist the call of populism and show that moderate and pragmatic politics can bring results.
Jair Zivan is the editor and author of the book "The Center Must Endure – Why Centrism is the Answer to Extremism and Polarization".
Sandro Gozzi is a former member of the Italian Parliament, current Member of the European Parliament and Secretary General of the European Democratic Party.
The article was taken from the "Politiko" portal.
translation: S. Strugar
Bonus video:
