The Alternative for Germany (AfD) has formed a new far-right group in the European Parliament called “Europe of Sovereign Nations.” This group is the third far-right alliance in the Parliament, alongside “Patriots for Europe” and “Fidesz.”
The new group, with 28 members, is considerably smaller than the existing “Patriots for Europe” group, which has 84 members. The fragmentation of the far-right within the Parliament reflects deep ideological differences and misgivings among nationalist parties. The AfD, previously rejected by the French National Rally due to one legislator’s insufficient condemnation of Nazi Germany, has found a new home in this third far-right group.
However, the AfD itself is not entirely unified. Maximilian Krah, the legislator whose stance on the Nazi past led to the party’s rejection by the French, has chosen not to join the new group. Despite its smaller size, the group is considered important by its members as a step towards reforming the EU. As a recognized political group, “Europe of Sovereign Nations” will enjoy certain legislative and financial advantages within the Parliament.
The formation of the new group highlights the evolving landscape of far-right politics in the European Parliament, where ideological differences and mistrust make it challenging to form cohesive alliances.