Women Leading Hard-Right Parties: How the AfD, National Coalition and Fratelli d’Italia Differ on Russia and the EU

In a recent article, the Financial Times (FT) compared three leading European far-right parties – Germany’s AfD, France’s National Coalition, and Italy’s Fratelli d’Italia. These groups were referred to as “hard-right” parties and shared common characteristics such as strong nationalism, hostility towards immigrants and Islam, and authoritarianism.

One of the notable differences between these parties and others in Europe is that they are predominantly led by women. Alice Weidel heads the AfD, Marine Le Pen leads the National Alliance in France, and Giorgia Meloni is the prime minister of Italy and leader of Fratelli d’Italia.

While these parties share similar beliefs in nationalism, opposition to minorities, and traditional values concerning gender roles and family dynamics, they differ in their positions on Russia. For example, while Meloni has distanced herself from pro-Russia sentiments and advocated for supporting Ukraine in EU contexts, Le Pen has been known for her pro-Russia stance but has recently changed her views. The AfD in Germany has faced criticism for alleged financial ties to Russia and China, creating a scandal within the party.

The leaders of these three parties have varying opinions regarding EU positions. While Weidel has hinted at Germany potentially leaving the euro and the EU, Meloni and Le Pen have softened their criticism of the EU. Meloni has been vocal in criticizing the European Central Bank’s monetary policies.

As European elections approach