Redrawing Europe's Map

In: World policy journal: WPJ ; a publication of the World Policy Institute, Volume 31, Issue 4

Abstract

The social and electoral map of Nijmegen has changed, and so has the map of the Netherlands and Europe. A similar set of observations could be made in many cities across the continent. New patterns of voting behavior have emerged, reflecting new polarities in changing societies. These polarities are set in the context of centuries-old rivalries that still persist. One of the most striking recent developments is the rise of Euroskeptic right-wing populist parties. The Jun 2014 elections for the European Parliament turned them into major parties in several countries, particularly the UK, Denmark, and France. Left-wing populists got their share as well, especially in southern Europe. Here, De Voogd looks at the new political map of Europe. Adapted from the source document.