Recent gains by far-right parties in the European Parliament elections may obstruct efforts to implement more ambitious climate policies, though key net-zero commitments are expected to persist.
Carissa Wong reports for Nature.
In short:
- The European Green Party suffered significant losses, while far-right parties made substantial gains in the recent European Parliament elections.
- Voter concerns about the cost-of-living crisis and geopolitical tensions have taken precedence over climate change, impacting election outcomes.
- Despite the political shift, researchers believe core climate goals like the European Green Deal are likely to remain intact.
Key quote:
"I don't think that there is going to be appetite to completely ditch the Green Deal."
— Richard Klein, Stockholm Environment Institute
Why this matters:
The shift in political power within the European Parliament may slow the advancement of stronger climate initiatives, affecting long-term environmental targets. Understanding these changes is important, as they may influence the EU's approach to climate policy and international environmental leadership.
