The Whiteness of European Politics: A Report on Inclusion and Disillusionment

A recent report by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) and the European Cultural Foundation (ECF) has sparked a significant conversation about the demographic representation within the European Union (EU) and its implications for the bloc’s core values. The findings suggest that the "obvious whiteness" of EU politics is increasingly at odds with the ideals of inclusivity and diversity that the union espouses. This article delves into the report’s key findings, the sentiments of various demographics, and the challenges facing the EU in fostering a more inclusive political landscape.

Exclusion and Disillusionment

The report highlights a growing sense of exclusion among certain demographics within the EU, particularly people of color and Muslims. Many individuals from these groups feel disillusioned with the political landscape, perceiving it as unrepresentative of their experiences and needs. The report indicates that this sentiment is particularly pronounced among younger voters, who describe the EU as "too white," "too western," and "too boomer."

Despite these feelings of disconnection, the report also reveals a paradox: a significant number of citizens across nearly all EU member states continue to express trust in the bloc. Many remain optimistic about its future and feel a sense of attachment to the European project. This duality underscores the complexity of the EU’s political environment, where trust in the institution coexists with feelings of alienation among specific groups.

Young Voters and Political Engagement

Interestingly, while surveys show that younger voters tend to be more pro-EU and tolerant than older generations, their participation in European elections has been notably low. Those who do engage in the electoral process often gravitate towards hard-right and anti-immigration parties. For instance, in Germany, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) garnered significant support among young voters, while in Poland, the radical right Confederation captured about 30% of the youth vote. In France, Marine Le Pen’s National Rally also attracted a considerable portion of young voters.

Pawel Zerka, the report’s author, suggests that this trend reflects a broader sense of disenfranchisement among young people, who feel unrepresented by established political parties often perceived as "boomer" institutions. This disconnect poses a challenge for traditional political forces, which must adapt to the evolving landscape of voter expectations and identities.

The Rise of Xenophobia

The report also addresses the alarming rise in xenophobic narratives across Europe, particularly following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Many Europeans of color and Muslims have reported feeling increasingly alienated due to the political climate and the narratives propagated by certain parties. The AfD and Italy’s Lega have been cited as examples of parties that have mainstreamed anti-Muslim tropes, contributing to a growing xenophobic worldview.

The report underscores the urgency for political parties to diversify their voting bases and memberships. Zerka advocates for lowering the voting age in countries like Austria, Belgium, and Germany to engage younger voters more effectively. He emphasizes the need for pro-European politicians to confront xenophobia head-on rather than remaining silent for short-term electoral gains.

Central and Eastern Europe: A Growing Concern

The report also sheds light on the situation in Central and Eastern Europe, where pro-European sentiment appears to be waning. Voter turnout in the recent European elections fell below 40% in seven out of eleven countries in the region, indicating a cooling enthusiasm for the EU. Many citizens in these countries feel let down by the tangible benefits of EU membership, leading to a normalization of Euroscepticism in nations like Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Croatia.

Conclusion: A Call for Change

The findings of the ECFR and ECF report present a critical challenge for the European Union as it seeks to uphold its core values of inclusivity and diversity. The disconnect felt by marginalized groups, particularly young voters, highlights the need for a reevaluation of political strategies and engagement practices.

To foster a more inclusive political environment, parties must actively work to diversify their membership and address the concerns of all citizens, particularly those who feel excluded. As the EU navigates these complex dynamics, it must remain committed to its foundational principles while adapting to the evolving landscape of European society. The future of the EU may well depend on its ability to bridge the gap between its ideals and the realities faced by its diverse population.