Towards Russia with love: Austria’s political tilt
Jan 8, 2025
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Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, discusses the dramatic rise of Austria’s Freedom Party, a once-fringe far-right group now nearing power. He highlights their extreme views on immigration and troubling pro-Russian sentiments, drawing connections to broader nationalist movements across Europe. Additionally, Lockwood reflects on the legacy of Jean-Marie Le Pen, exploring how his ideologies have evolved into mainstream politics through his daughter, Marine. The conversation also briefly touches on financial inclusion challenges in Latin America.
The rise of far-right parties like Austria's Freedom Party indicates a worrying trend of nationalism and anti-immigrant sentiments across Europe.
Jean-Marie Le Pen's legacy in France exemplifies the normalization of xenophobic politics, influencing future generations and shaping mainstream political discourse.
Deep dives
The Rise of Far-Right Parties in Europe
Disillusionment with centrist political parties has led many European citizens to gravitate towards far-right parties that once occupied the fringes of political discourse. In countries like Austria, the Freedom Party (FPO) is gaining traction, advocating for strict immigration policies and distancing itself from mainstream parties. Specifically, the FPO's rhetoric includes calls for the deportation of migrants and a rejection of asylum seekers, reflecting a resurgence of nationalist sentiments. This change is echoed in nations like Germany, where the Alternative for Germany (AFD) party similarly gains popularity, although the mainstream coalition parties remain firmly opposed to any collaboration.
Jean-Marie Le Pen's Legacy
Jean-Marie Le Pen's impact on the rise of xenophobic politics in France is profound and enduring. Leveraging themes of nationalism and immigration fears, he founded the National Front in the 1970s, which has since evolved under his daughter, Marine Le Pen, into a more mainstream political force. His career was marked by controversial statements and ideologies that shocked the public but ultimately contributed to the normalization of such views within French politics. The ongoing acceptance of hard-right politics highlights the long-term effects of his provocations, culminating in a shift in public sentiment that allows figures like Marine Le Pen closer to power than ever before.
Increasing Financial Inclusion in Latin America
Latin America is experiencing a notable shift towards greater financial inclusion, with a marked increase in the number of individuals holding bank accounts. Factors spurring this growth include the pandemic's push towards digital payments and government-led initiatives encouraging banking access, particularly among women and rural populations. As fintech companies and neobanks rise, they are challenging traditional banks to improve services and reduce fees, fostering a more competitive environment. However, the journey towards true financial inclusion remains complex, as many new account holders still lack access to essential financial services such as credit and loans, underscoring the need for continued efforts to bridge existing disparities.
A once-fringe far-right party looks close to power—and serves as another sign of a broad and worrying pro-Russia trend in central European politics. Meanwhile Jean-Marie Le Pen, who established the far-right party now close to power in France, has died; our correspondent reflects on his legacy (10:05). And our series The World Ahead examines financial inclusion in Latin America (16:07).