Rise Of Far Right In 2024 And Weakening Of Western Liberal Democracy In Europe: A Southeast Asian Perspective – Analysis

The rise of far-right movements in Europe in 2024 reflects deep-seated concerns about identity, economic security, and governance. Once considered fringe political elements, far-right parties have gained significant traction in national parliaments, shaping public discourse and challenging the core tenets of liberal democracy.

This shift has highlighted a broader weakening of Western democratic institutions, marked by growing polarisation, distrust in political systems, and declining faith in the European Union (EU). As Europe grapples with these issues, Southeast Asia’s experience with multiculturalism, political resilience, and balancing sovereignty with regional cooperation provides valuable lessons. The rise of far-right movements reveals profound crises, but with thoughtful reforms, Europe can counter these challenges and restore its democratic foundations. 

Economic Factors and Political Disillusionment 

One of the key drivers behind the rise of the far right in Europe is economic instability, which has persisted since the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, from inflation to unemployment, leading to economic discontent across the continent. In particular, rising living costs, wage stagnation, and weakened social safety nets have disproportionately affected lower-income groups, fuelling frustration with traditional political parties.

Far-right movements have capitalized on this economic anxiety, offering populist rhetoric that promises to restore national prosperity by reducing immigration, limiting global trade, and withdrawing from multilateral agreements. Political disillusionment, another critical factor, has intensified the far-right’s appeal. Mainstream political parties, particularly centrist coalitions, have often been seen as detached from the concerns of ordinary citizens, leading to perceptions of elitism and unresponsive governance.

The EU itself has been criticized for bureaucratic inefficiency and a lack of democratic accountability, further inflaming Euroscepticism. Far-right movements have positioned themselves as defenders of national sovereignty, promising to return power to the people and dismantle what they view as oppressive supranational governance. This approach has resonated with voters who feel that the EU’s policies, particularly around immigration and economic reform, have contributed to their insecurity. 

Cultural and Identity Politics 

The far-right’s rise to power has manifested itself in various ways. In some countries, far-right parties have gained significant representation in parliaments and even formed coalition governments. This has allowed them to shape policies that reflect their nationalist and anti-immigrant ideologies.

Additionally, far-right movements have exerted influence through street protests and demonstrations, using these platforms to spread their messages and gain support. In some cases, far-right groups have engaged in violent actions, targeting minority communities and stoking fear and division. Such manifestations of far-right power pose a significant threat to the principles of democracy and social cohesion in Europe. 

Combating the Far-Right Threat 

Addressing the rise of far-right extremism requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves tackling the underlying economic grievances that contribute to the appeal of far-right ideologies, while also addressing the anxieties around immigration and multiculturalism. Education and awareness campaigns that promote tolerance, diversity, and inclusion are crucial in countering the narratives propagated by far-right groups. Furthermore, tighter regulations and monitoring of digital platforms are necessary to curb the spread of misinformation and hate speech.

Political leaders and mainstream media outlets must also actively challenge far-right narratives and provide responsible and balanced coverage. It is only through collective efforts that Europe can confront the far-right threat and safeguard its democratic values. The far-right’s influence in Europe is now clearly visible in its electoral gains, policy shifts, and growing extremism. In countries such as Italy, France, and Sweden, far-right parties have either entered government coalitions or gained substantial representation in parliaments.

These movements have also succeeded in pushing stricter immigration policies, challenging civil liberties, and fostering anti-EU sentiment. Moreover, far-right populist protests often framed as a defense of national sovereignty have become increasingly common. These movements have also fostered a surge in xenophobic violence, including attacks on ethnic, religious, and LGBTQ+ minorities and refugees. The rise of extremist paramilitary groups and increased involvement in street movements demonstrate the far-right’s growing capacity to disrupt social order and challenge democratic governance. 

The Southeast Asian Perspective 

While Europe is struggling with the rise of the far-right, Southeast Asia presents an alternative approach to addressing cultural diversity, political disillusionment, and regional cooperation. Southeast Asia’s history of managing multiethnic, multireligious societies offers valuable insights for Europe. Countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, despite their challenges, have institutionalized multiculturalism, maintaining a degree of social cohesion that Europe can learn from. The emphasis on pluralism and coexistence has allowed Southeast Asia to navigate its identity politics without the level of polarisation seen in Europe.

Moreover, the region’s political landscape, marked by a mix of democratic and authoritarian regimes, offers lessons on political resilience. Some Southeast Asian countries have managed to preserve stability by blending elements of both governance systems, balancing authoritarian controls with democratic institutions. Europe can study how Southeast Asia’s pragmatism, particularly in dealing with disillusionment, has fostered political stability without completely sacrificing democratic norms.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) also provides an example of how regional cooperation can work without undermining national sovereignty. ASEAN’s principle of non-interference allows member states to collaborate on key issues while respecting domestic political priorities. This contrasts sharply with the EU, where tension between national sovereignty and supranational governance has fuelled Euroscepticism. Europe could benefit from a more flexible, regionally cooperative approach that respects national identities while promoting collaboration on common challenges 

Prospects For Solutions

Addressing the rise of the far right and weakening of Western liberal democracy in Europe requires a multi-pronged approach. First, economic reforms are essential. Tackling income inequality and wage stagnation through progressive taxation, job creation, and social safety nets can alleviate economic insecurity. Governments must prioritize policies that directly benefit the working class, ensuring economic recovery is inclusive.

In addition to economic solutions, Europe must promote inclusive identity politics that embrace multiculturalism. Governments can foster integration programs for immigrants and refugees while also supporting campaigns against hate speech and racism. Legal frameworks that protect civil liberties and prevent discrimination must be strengthened. Reforming democratic institutions is also vital. Europe must enhance judicial independence, improve electoral transparency, and reduce corruption. Media literacy initiatives that counter misinformation and promote critical thinking can help rebuild public trust in democratic systems.

Strengthening the EU’s capacity to address national concerns while also fostering regional cohesion can help bridge the divide between national sovereignty and supranational governance. Southeast Asia’s experience offers additional lessons. Europe can draw inspiration from ASEAN’s regional cooperation model, which respects national sovereignty while promoting pragmatic multilateralism. Europe’s political landscape could also benefit from Southeast Asia’s approach to managing diversity and identity politics, fostering a more inclusive political environment.

Conclusion

The rise of the far right in 2024 signals a crisis in Western liberal democracy driven by economic insecurity, political disillusionment, and identity politics. As Europe grapples with these challenges, Southeast Asia’s experience with multiculturalism, political pragmatism, and regional cooperation provides valuable insights. While Europe faces significant obstacles, thoughtful reforms focused on economic inclusion, democratic resilience, and a flexible regional framework offer a path forward. Rebuilding public trust and embracing inclusive policies can counter the far-right surge and reinvigorate Europe’s democratic values. Through such strategies, Europe can not only restore stability but also ensure the long-term survival of its liberal democratic traditions.

The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own.

References

• Mudde, Cas. The Far Right Today. Polity Press, 2019.
• Mounk, Yascha. The People vs. Democracy: Why Our Freedom Is in Danger and How to Save It. Harvard University Press, 2018.
• Norris, Pippa, and Ronald Inglehart. Cultural Backlash: Trump, Brexit, and Authoritarian Populism. Cambridge University Press, 2019.
• Rydgren, Jens. The Oxford Handbook of the Radical Right. Oxford University Press, 2018.