From Abandonment to Extremism: Emigration's Role in Shaping Far-Right Political Landscapes in Europe

ABSTRACT: The rise of far-right ideologies in Europe presents a significant challenge, driven by complex socio-economic, cultural, and psychological factors. This paper examines the role of high emigration rates, economic stagnation, and nostalgia for a perceived utopian past in fueling far-right support. It also explores broader issues such as economic grievances, digital misinformation, and cultural backlash. Through an interdisciplinary approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods, this study highlights the interplay between these factors and their impact on political behavior. Key findings indicate that regions experiencing high emigration and economic stagnation tend to show higher levels of support for far-right parties. The departure of young and skilled individuals can contribute to sustained economic challenges and create socio-political conditions in which certain political actors gain traction. Feelings of nostalgia for past social or economic conditions, along with reactions to rapid cultural change, also appear to be associated with increased receptiveness to such parties. Digital information dynamics, including the circulation of misleading content, further shape these patterns by influencing how political messages are disseminated and perceived. Policy recommendations in the literature suggest that addressing development traps through investment in education, vocational training, and local entrepreneurship may strengthen economic resilience. Initiatives aimed at promoting social cohesion and community engagement are also identified as potentially relevant for reducing perceived socio-political marginalisation. Furthermore, improving digital literacy and reviewing the regulatory frameworks governing online platforms have been proposed as approaches that could help improve the quality and reliability of information circulating in digital environments. This study highlights the relevance of adopting comprehensive and balanced policy approaches to address factors associated with regional variations in support for far-right parties. Policies that encourage economic development, strengthen social inclusion, and improve communication and outreach mechanisms are identified in the literature as potentially contributing to greater socio-political stability. Future research could benefit from longitudinal and comparative analyses to deepen understanding of these dynamics and to inform context-sensitive policy design.