Citizens across 20 European countries are heading to the polls today, marking the culmination of the European Parliament elections. This year’s vote carries immense significance amidst a backdrop of polarized politics and escalating nationalism across the continent.
Leading up to the election, incidents of violence have occurred, including an attack resulting in minor injuries to Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, though it’s not believed to be politically motivated.
Projections suggest that Europe’s main center-right alliance is poised to secure the top spot across the EU, yet attention is also on several far-right parties vying for significant gains nationally. France’s National Rally, Italy’s Brothers of Italy, Austria’s Freedom Party, and Belgium’s Vlaams Belang are among those leading in the polls.
While voting commenced earlier in some EU countries, the majority are participating today, underlining the direct connection between European citizens and the EU’s institutions through the European Parliament.