The Rise of Right-Wing Euroscepticism in Western Europe

Abstract

Introduction: Due to a new wave of the global economic crisis, Euroscepticism has begun to spread rapidly, leading to the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union and a rise in the ratings of Eurosceptic political parties. Various trends can be observed in the activities of Eurosceptic parties; however, almost all of these trends, in one way or another, demonstrate aspirations that are contrary to integration. This study examines the development of right-wing Euroscepticism in the largest countries of Western Europe and its impact on international relations and the European Union as an integration institution. The aim of the research is to identify the main characteristics of right-wing Euroscepticism and the potential consequences of its growth in the major countries of Western Europe for the European Union. The article examines the largest Eurosceptic parties in Western European countries, analyzes their activities, identifies the main trends inherent in these parties, and determines the possible consequences of their actions for the EU. Methods and Materials: The research methods used were comparative analysis and systems analysis. Research Results and Discussion: The findings of the study indicate that integration in the format of the European Union has begun to outlive its usefulness for member states.   However, countries still wish to belong to some form of European integration association; therefore, dissatisfaction is expressed in a desire either to reform the European Union or to create a new integration association in its place. Conclusions: Soft Euroscepticism is gaining strength in Western Europe: opposition parties are demanding a reduction in the powers of supranational bodies in favor of national sovereignty. The growing popularity of Eurosceptics points to a high probability of a future revision of the terms of integration. The practical significance of this work: the results of the research can be brought to the attention of specialists in relevant analytical centers and also used as supplementary literature for more in-depth studies on Euroscepticism. The article can serve as a foundation for research, identifying patterns and mechanisms of Euroscepticism and similar phenomena, as well as for studying the processes taking place within the European community.