Political violence is on the rise across Europe, with recent attacks on Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, and German politicians. This surge in violence comes amid deep polarization in European societies due to migration from the Middle East and Africa, as well as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The European Parliament elections, scheduled for this weekend, have further heightened tensions. These elections are expected to shift the political landscape to the right in the European Union, driven in part by the issue of migration.
Critics have raised concerns that leaders like Fico are using the recent attacks to rally support for their populist parties. The assaults on elected leaders have added to fears that democracy itself is under threat, with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson emphasizing that an attack on a democratically elected leader is an attack on democracy.
In France, extreme-right figure Eric Zemmour and Socialist candidate Raphael Glucksmann have also faced violence during their campaigns. In Germany, members of both government and opposition parties have reported physical and verbal attacks.
The UK, which is gearing up for a national election, has also seen political violence, with pro-Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage being pelted with a milkshake. The recent incidents underscore the growing challenges facing European democracies and the need to address the rising tide of political violence.
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