supporting refugees. In Belgium the far right is actually split along the country’s linguistic lines. The Dutch speaking Vlaams Blok holds 11 seats in the 150 seat chamber of deputies. On of Vlaams Blok’s major issues is independence for Flanders. Also in Belgium, the French speaking National Front received 2.3 percent of the vote and holds two seats (Heneghan).This phenomenon of increased right wing activity have many asking the same question, why? Why is there a surge in right wing activity across Europe? More importantly, why are some of these groups actually being taken seriously? There are a number of reasons for this. First the tactics used by right wing parties to recruit voters is particularly appealing to blue collar workers. These usually are male traditional semi-skilled laborers who fear losing their jobs to new technology. The right wing parties will play off of the laborers fear of losing jobs to cheaper immigrant labor. Most of these right wing parties have an anti-immigration platform, much like the know-nothings of America (The Economist).Another possible reason that radical right wing parties have become more appealing is because of the current social and economic climate in some parts of Europe. For example some compare the current climate to that of the Weimar Republic, established after imperial Germany was beaten in World War I. The Weimar Republic became notoriously known for the political instability and popular dissent that may have pave the way for Hitler’s rise to power. During Weimar, one third of the population voted for radical, right wing parties (Fleck). While this description may not be totally accurate of the current atmosphere, it’s parallels with the Weimar republic are none the less interesting.Another possible reason why the far-right has become increasingly popular is because the injection of new younger voters. While right wing movements declined in the 70...
