Europe’s Shifting Sands: Far-Right Currents Rise in Sweden and Germany

Amidst a changing demographic landscape, nationalist and anti-immigration movements are gaining traction, prompting debate and concern across the continent.

The political climate in Europe is undergoing a significant transformation, with a discernible shift towards right-wing and nationalist ideologies evident in several key nations. Recent electoral outcomes and the growing influence of parties with anti-immigration platforms in countries like Austria, Germany, and Sweden highlight a complex interplay of social, economic, and demographic factors. This article explores the rise of the far-right in Sweden and Germany, examining the contributing factors, the perspectives of those involved, and the broader implications for European politics and society.

Context & Background

The current political landscape in Europe is often viewed through the lens of the continent’s response to the 2015 refugee crisis. Sweden, known for its historically welcoming stance, experienced a substantial influx of migrants, mirroring Germany’s “open-door” policy at the time. In 2015, approximately 160,000 migrants entered Sweden, and around one million arrived in Germany. This period marked a significant demographic shift, leading to societal debates about integration, national identity, and the sustainability of welfare systems.

In Austria, the election of 31-year-old Christian Kurz as chancellor on an anti-immigration platform, potentially forming a government with a party founded by individuals with Nazi affiliations, signals a notable rightward turn. Similarly, Germany witnessed the rise of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which entered Parliament with 13 percent of the vote, presenting a challenge to Chancellor Angela Merkel’s long-standing leadership and her policies on refugees.

In Sweden, the political scene has also seen a strong challenge from right-wing and neo-Nazi groups. The Nordic Resistance Movement (NRM), a neo-Nazi organization, has been actively recruiting and organizing demonstrations, advocating for an ideology that emphasizes ethnic nationalism and expresses concerns about demographic change. These developments are occurring against a backdrop of evolving societal attitudes and political discourse across Europe.

In-Depth Analysis

Sweden: The Nordic Resistance Movement and Shifting Sentiment

The PBS NewsHour report from Gothenburg, Sweden, provides a ground-level view of the Nordic Resistance Movement’s activities. The NRM, described as a neo-Nazi group, is seen actively mobilizing, with supporters like Paulina Forslund articulating a message centered on preserving a perceived “white” heritage and ensuring a secure future for her children and Sweden.

Forslund’s rhetoric, when addressing fellow NRM members, uses loaded language such as “imported scum,” indicating a strong anti-immigrant sentiment and a perception that the welfare system is being compromised by newcomers. The movement’s emphasis on a “welder’s daughter” and “forester’s grandchild” heritage attempts to connect with a working-class identity, framing their agenda as a defense of traditional Swedish values and livelihoods.

Counter-protests, such as the one organized with a sign reading “No Nazis on our streets,” highlight the opposition to these ideologies. Johanna, an anti-Nazi protester, articulates a clear rejection of racism, stating, “They are racist people. They are people who think that certain people are better than others, and I will not stand for that. It’s not something I think has a place in a modern society.”

Experts quoted in the report suggest that the NRM is actively recruiting, and their demonstrations are indicative of a broader trend of the far-right gaining ground. The timing of a demonstration on Yom Kippur, the Jewish day of atonement, is noted by Allan Stutzinky, leader of Gothenburg’s Jewish community. Stutzinky draws a direct parallel between current NRM activities and historical Nazism, stating, “Nazism has returned. The descendants of the murderers are organizing the same marches today, waving the same flags, shouting the same slogans, and have the same racist agenda.” This sentiment underscores the historical anxieties that far-right movements, particularly those with neo-Nazi links, evoke.

Swedish politicians, like Anna Johansson of the Social Democratic Party, express concern about the growth of extreme parties and the spread of hatred. The government is reportedly considering outlawing the Nordic Resistance Movement, reflecting a desire to contain the influence of groups perceived as threats to democratic values. The report captures the tension during a demonstration, with exchanges like “Go home to mama” and “Nazi pigs,” alongside the tossing of a bottle, illustrating the volatile nature of these confrontations.

A member of the NRM, identified as Damon, distances himself from the label “Nazi,” preferring “national socialist.” He articulates a concern for “preserving my heritage for my family and our kin” due to perceived demographic changes in Europe. This highlights a common theme among such groups: framing their agenda as a defense of national identity and heritage in the face of demographic shifts.

The report notes that the NRM demonstration was ultimately contained by police and counter-protesters, with some arrests occurring. Forslund’s statement, “We are not your enemy. We are the government’s enemy. They say we live in a democracy, but we have never had an election about if we want to take all these people in,” reflects a populist grievance, questioning democratic legitimacy and decision-making processes regarding immigration.

The shift in Sweden’s border policy, from an open-door approach following the 2015 refugee crisis to tighter borders and deportations, is presented as a response to changing public sentiment. Floid Gumbo, a singer originally from Zimbabwe who has lived in Sweden for over 20 years, observes a change in the country’s atmosphere, noting that it was “so friendly, and things were completely different, more welcoming.” His concern for his children’s future in a potentially less welcoming climate underscores the personal impact of these societal shifts.

Germany: The AfD’s Impact and Merkel’s Challenge

In Germany, the success of the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in entering Parliament with 13 percent of the vote is seen as a significant development. Anna Johansson connects this to a broader European trend, describing the German elections as “terrifying.”

Hugh Bronson, deputy leader of the AfD in Berlin, explains the party’s emergence as a response to Chancellor Merkel’s perceived abandonment of “traditional conservative Christian voters.” He states that the AfD offers a “safe place” for these voters. The party’s platform, as articulated by Bronson, focuses on stricter immigration rules, arguing that the issue lies with individuals who “abuse the system,” are “criminals,” or expect others to fund their lives.

The sentiment in Dresden, a city in former East Germany that was a birthplace of a pan-European anti-Islamic movement and delivered significant votes for right-wing parties, offers insight into the local concerns. Luca Bergelt, a singer, expresses a fear that the rise of nationalism could “tear Europe apart” and lead to the “raising up of walls again,” reflecting anxieties about the potential disintegration of European unity.

Wilfried Schmidt, a retired engineer in Dresden, articulates a common justification for supporting right-wing parties: Germany is “undergoing social changes that are becoming harder to control.” He specifically cites “mass immigration from difficult regions that is increasingly uncontrollable, of people with entirely different concepts of life, from fundamental differently structured societies that are problematic.” This sentiment reflects a perception of cultural and societal disruption attributed to immigration.

Chancellor Merkel, who consistently defended her pro-refugee policies, has faced electoral consequences. Her promise to “listen to the people who voted for the AfD” and attempt to “win them over with what she calls good politics” signifies an acknowledgment of voter dissatisfaction. However, her refusal to have the AfD in her coalition highlights the political divisions and the established parties’ reluctance to work with far-right entities.

The need for Merkel to find new coalition partners who are willing to adopt tougher immigration policies has led to concessions, such as agreeing to an annual cap of 200,000 immigrants, a policy she previously opposed. Political scientist Werner Patzelt from Dresden University suggests that further “U-turns” from Merkel are possible in an attempt to win back AfD voters, but notes the deep disappointment many voters feel towards her party, making their return uncertain.

The governing party in Sweden, the Social Democrats, expressed horror at the prospect of conceding ground to right-wingers, emphasizing the danger of their ideas spreading if adopted by other parties. Floid Gumbo’s concluding plea, “We’re all human beings. We share this world. We’re all here. There’s enough space for us all,” represents a contrasting vision of inclusivity and shared humanity, a sentiment that the report suggests is being rejected by an increasing number of Swedes.

Pros and Cons

Arguments for and Concerns Raised by the Rise of the Far-Right:

Potential Arguments/Explanations for the Rise of Far-Right Sentiment:

• Concerns over Immigration and Integration: Proponents argue that the significant influx of migrants has placed strain on social services, infrastructure, and cultural cohesion, necessitating stricter immigration policies and greater emphasis on assimilation.
• Economic Discontent: Some analyses suggest that economic stagnation or inequality in certain regions can fuel support for nationalist parties that promise to prioritize national interests and protect domestic jobs.
• Cultural Identity and Heritage Protection: Supporters of far-right movements often express a desire to preserve national culture, traditions, and identity in the face of perceived globalization and demographic changes.
• Critique of Mainstream Politics: Far-right parties often position themselves as outsiders challenging established political elites, attracting voters who feel unrepresented or ignored by traditional parties.
• Security Concerns: In some instances, anxieties about crime or terrorism are linked to immigration, leading to calls for stronger border controls and more rigorous security measures.

Concerns and Criticisms Regarding the Rise of Far-Right Movements:

• Promotion of Xenophobia and Racism: Critics point to the often xenophobic, Islamophobic, and racist rhetoric employed by many far-right groups, which can foster division and discrimination.
• Erosion of Democratic Norms: Concerns exist that the anti-immigrant and nationalist agendas of some far-right parties can undermine democratic values, human rights, and the principles of an open society.
• Historical Parallels and Extremism: The presence of neo-Nazi groups, as seen in Sweden, raises alarms due to historical associations with violence, persecution, and totalitarianism.
• Disruption of European Unity: The rise of nationalist sentiments and protectionist policies championed by some far-right parties can threaten the stability and cooperation that underpin the European Union.
• Divisiveness and Social Fragmentation: The polarizing nature of far-right discourse can exacerbate social tensions, leading to increased conflict and a breakdown of community cohesion.

Key Takeaways

• The political landscape in Europe is experiencing a notable shift towards right-wing and nationalist ideologies, particularly in countries that received a significant number of migrants in 2015, such as Sweden and Germany.
• Far-right groups, including the Nordic Resistance Movement in Sweden (described as neo-Nazi) and the Alternative for Germany (AfD), are gaining political traction and influence.
• Key drivers behind this shift appear to include concerns about immigration, integration, national identity, and perceived impacts on social services and cultural cohesion.
• Supporters of these movements often frame their agendas as a defense of national heritage and the interests of the existing population, sometimes using strong anti-immigrant rhetoric.
• Counter-movements and political figures express significant concern, drawing parallels to historical instances of Nazism and warning of the potential for increased xenophobia, racism, and the erosion of democratic values.
• Mainstream political parties are grappling with how to respond, with some considering legislative measures against extremist groups and others attempting to address voter concerns through policy adjustments, such as immigration caps.
• The phenomenon highlights a broader crisis of identity and a questioning of established political norms across parts of Europe.

Future Outlook

The ongoing rise of far-right movements across Europe suggests a period of continued political volatility and debate. The ability of mainstream political parties to address the underlying concerns that fuel support for these groups, while simultaneously upholding democratic values and inclusivity, will be crucial.

In Germany, Chancellor Merkel’s attempts to forge a coalition and implement stricter immigration policies, like the annual cap, may moderate some of the immediate political fallout. However, the deep-seated dissatisfaction among a segment of the electorate suggests that the AfD will likely remain a significant political force. The long-term impact on German society and its approach to immigration remains to be seen.

In Sweden, the potential outlawing of groups like the Nordic Resistance Movement signifies a direct challenge to extremist ideologies. Yet, the underlying sentiments that contribute to their recruitment and support are likely to persist, requiring ongoing societal and political engagement. The country’s continued navigation of its identity in the context of demographic change will shape its future political trajectory.

Across Europe, the success of anti-immigration platforms may encourage similar movements in other nations. The balance between national sovereignty, the principle of humanitarian aid, and the practicalities of integration will continue to be a central theme in European politics. The potential for increased border controls, shifts in foreign policy, and debates about the future of European integration are all likely outcomes.

Call to Action

Understanding the complex factors contributing to the rise of the far-right is essential for fostering informed public discourse and developing effective policy responses. Citizens are encouraged to:

• Engage with diverse news sources to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issues from multiple perspectives.
• Support and participate in civil society organizations that promote tolerance, inclusivity, and democratic values.
• Advocate for policies that address socio-economic disparities and promote successful integration of all communities.
• Critically evaluate political rhetoric and be wary of divisive or inflammatory language.
• Participate in democratic processes to ensure that diverse voices are heard and represented.

For further information and to explore the perspectives of organizations and governmental bodies involved, consider consulting the following resources:

• PBS NewsHour’s coverage of European politics and refugee crises can provide ongoing context: PBS NewsHour
• Official government websites of Sweden and Germany often provide data and policy information related to immigration and social affairs. (Specific links would vary based on current government structures and information accessibility).
• The European Union’s official website offers information on migration policies and the broader political landscape across member states: European Union
• Academic institutions and think tanks focusing on European affairs, such as those mentioned in the article (e.g., Dresden University), frequently publish research and analysis on these topics.