it.euronews.com
AfD Considers Joining Europe of Patriots Group
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party may join the Europe of Patriots (PfE) group in the European Parliament after the February 23rd federal elections, a move supported by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán but opposed by France's Rassemblement National due to past controversies.
- What are the immediate implications of the AfD potentially joining the Europe of Patriots group in the European Parliament?
- The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party may join the Europe of Patriots (PfE) group in the European Parliament after the February 23rd federal elections. While discussions aren't formally underway, sources confirm the idea is gaining traction within PfE, currently the third-largest group with 86 MEPs from 13 EU states. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a key PfE figure, recently voiced support for AfD, highlighting policy convergence, particularly on migration.
- What factors within the Europe of Patriots group influence the decision to accept or reject the AfD's membership application?
- PfE aims to unite like-minded parties across Europe, increase government presence, and ultimately become the "new normal" in Brussels. The AfD's potential inclusion reflects this broader strategy of consolidating right-wing, conservative, and nationalistic forces within the EU. This move, however, faces internal opposition, especially from France's Rassemblement National, citing past AfD controversies.
- What are the potential long-term consequences for the AfD and the European political landscape if the AfD joins the Europe of Patriots group?
- AfD's potential shift from its current small group, 'Europe of Sovereign Nations', to PfE presents a strategic calculation. While gaining influence, joining PfE might reduce the party's financial benefits and speaking time in Parliament compared to maintaining leadership in its smaller group. The outcome hinges on the AfD's internal deliberations and the February 23rd election results, as well as the stance of key PfE members like the Rassemblement National.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative frames the potential AfD-Patrioti per l'Europa alliance as a significant development, emphasizing statements from key figures supporting the union. The headline and introduction highlight the possibility of the alliance, potentially giving it more weight than other possible scenarios. The article's structure prioritizes information supporting this narrative.
Language Bias
The article uses terms like "extreme right" to describe AfD, which is a loaded term. While accurate in a political context, using a less charged descriptor like "far-right" or specifying their policies might provide a more neutral tone. Similarly, describing the Patrioti per l'Europa's plan as aiming to become "the new normality in Brussels" carries a connotative meaning.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the potential alliance between AfD and the Patrioti per l'Europa, but omits discussion of other potential alliances or political strategies AfD might pursue. It also doesn't explore the perspectives of other political groups within the EU Parliament beyond those directly involved in the potential merger. While space constraints likely contribute, this omission limits a comprehensive understanding of the political landscape.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by focusing primarily on the AfD's choice between remaining in its current group or joining the Patrioti per l'Europa, overlooking other potential political alignments or strategies. This framing might oversimplify the complex dynamics of European politics.
Sustainable Development Goals
The potential alliance between the AfD and the Patrioti per l'Europa raises concerns regarding the promotion of peace, justice, and strong institutions. The AfD's past controversies, including statements minimizing Nazi crimes and proposals for the expulsion of naturalized Germans, contradict the principles of democratic governance and human rights. The alliance could normalize extremist views and undermine democratic processes within the EU.