The EU is to blame for the rise of the far right in Europe – Al Jazeera English

Europe should confront the growing far right movement with left wing populism, says philosopher Santiago Zabala.

The European Union came into being to maintain the neoliberal project. It hoped to create a neutral politics in Europe a politics beyond left and right, beyond socialism and conservatism that would allow the states to function no matter what.

The EU wants the continent to be governed by parties firmly in the political centre, or by big coalitions.But many Europeans, even progressive people like myself, are a little bit tired of this constant search for the big centre. Moderate governments, parties and coalitions in the centre are not taking into consideration the real needs of the people while forming their policies. Most European citizens want clear, direct policies that can solve their economic problems.

All this is creating an opportunity for the rise of extremists who can communicate a very clear political message. At the moment, the far right is taking advantage of this, but the far left is not.

Philosopher Santiago Zabala explains why Europe should confront the growing far right movement with left wing populism.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance.

See the rest here:

The EU is to blame for the rise of the far right in Europe - Al Jazeera English