The right amount of populism can even help democracy, says political scientist Paula Diehl. In this interview, she explains when it becomes dangerous and how it can be addressed.

The first-ever victory of the far-right AfD comes in a context of growing divisions between how people in the east and the west of the country perceive society.

The instinct to withdraw into isolationism and nationalism is understandable, yet it plays into the hands of authoritarian, anti-democratic forces.

Evangelicals say elected representatives must be respected but “postures of hatred, invective rejected”. The RN says it will prioritise security and immigration restrictions.

How can or should churches respond to the upsurge of nationalism in general, and in particular the way in which it plays a key-role in populist movements?

A ‘sharp right turn’ is coming up fast as we approach elections across Europe this year, at both national and European levels. Migrant-scapegoating and nationalism is on the rise in our continent. 

Democracy cannot simply be taken for granted. Vigilance is essential to resist unbridled self-interest and to promote the human dignity of all and human rights for all.

The victory of the Freedom Party shocks the European scenario. While traditional Christian parties suffer losses, “it is no secret that some believers love Wilders”, says journalist Evert Van Vlastuin.

Giorgia Meloni says she will try to restore the country’s pride. She opposes gender ideology, liberal abortion laws, and has a hard stance on immigration.

As the September general election approaches, the President of the Italian Evangelical Alliance warns that “some evangelicals are easily ‘pulled by the jacket’ in politics”.

Christians should be known for their ability to analyse cultural narratives, especially those that appeal to Christian values.

The hybrid State of Europe Forum’s theme ‘Seeking shalom’ (Paris), was addressed in three bi-lingual plenary sessions, seekingto ‘understand the times’ and ‘to know what God’s people should do’.

Uncertainty and discontentment give the far-right a chance to win the Presidential election on Sunday. But Protestants continue to support Macron, says researcher Sebastien Fath.

“People know so little of the Bible that discipleship starts much further down the line”, says James Ros, leader of the church planting movement #EastGermanyBelieves. 

Europe 2021 is a document which church and mission leaders everywhere should download and study. It is an evangelical rarity.

Anti-elite parties talking about defending traditional Christian values attract believers.

Self-protection is probably the main reason why Evangelicals appeared unable to see the fatality of a regime which was responsible for millions of deaths all over Europe, amongst them 6 million Jews.

Seventy-five years ago this week, the forces of Nazi Germany formally surrendered to Allied Forces in what came to be called Victory in Europe Day. But the 9th May is also the seventieth anniversary of a three-minute speech by Robert Schuman.

The Brussels Representative of the European Evangelical Alliance, Arie de Pater, analyses the situation of the EU amid the coronavirus, and the role of Christians in this crisis.

VIctor Hugo’s perspective helps us realise we cannot take the privilege of voting in the European elections for granted. This weekend saw the highest turnout in the EP elections.

The rise of far-right populism anticipates an unstable scenario. Evangelicals issued “Vote Wisely”, a guide offering biblical reflection on education, migration, economy, and other socio-political issues.

“Actually, Finland took a few steps to the left”, says Christian journalist Matti Korhonen. “Immigration politics, gender issues/sexuality and climate change are hot topics in society”.

Nearly a quarter of the voters cast their ballots by e-voting. The far-right party came third.

According to World Watch List, released today by Open Doors International, 4,305 people died in 2018 because of their Christian faith. Christian persecution has drastically increased.

“After the European election, we will work hard to identify the MEPs who have a heart for human dignity, human rights, and Freedom of Religion or Belief”, says the European Evangelical Alliance Brussels officer Arie de Pater.