As the European Union’s parliamentary elections progress, Italy, Slovakia, Malta, and Latvia have joined the member states casting their ballots on June 8th. The elections, which will continue through June 9th, are being closely monitored for the anticipated rise of far-right parties across the continent.In Slovakia, the political atmosphere is tense following an assassination attempt on Prime Minister Robert Fico, which may sway the electorate. Malta’s election features young voters, with eligibility starting at age 16, and Latvia is expected to see the New Unity party led by Valdis Dombrovskis win 11 seats. Italy’s voting process is particularly noteworthy, as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s far-right Brothers of Italy party is projected to secure significant gains, potentially influencing the European Parliament’s future direction.The elections come at a critical time for the EU, testing the bloc’s unity and ability to address challenges such as immigration and political polarization. With nearly 360 million voters across the EU, the first preliminary results are expected by the end of the day on June 9th. Leaders like Meloni have emphasized the importance of the elections in deciding the future of the EU, while other candidates, such as Italian vice president and League party leader Matteo Salvini, have used the occasion to voice their positions on key issues like the military support for Ukraine.The European Parliament plays a crucial role in legislating and approving European laws, as well as in electing the President of the European Commission and appointing its commissioners. With the potential shift to the right, the election results are poised to have a significant impact on the EU’s policies and governance in the coming years.
Key points
- Voting for the European Parliament is taking place with Italy, Slovakia, Malta, and Latvia among the countries that have already cast their ballots.
- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s far-right party is projected to make significant gains, potentially influencing the European Parliament.
- Slovakia’s elections are marked by recent assassination attempt on Prime Minister Robert Fico, which may affect voter sentiment.
- Malta’s election includes young voters aged 16 and over, while Latvia’s New Unity party is expected to win 11 seats.
