Auberon Waugh, son of the famous novelist Evelyn Waugh, passed away 25 years ago this month. While he may not have reached the literary heights of his father, Auberon made his mark in journalism and even ventured into fiction. Notably, he held a unique perspective as a rightwing pro-European, an alignment that diverges from the common conservative skepticism towards the European Union.
Waugh viewed Europe as a potential bastion against American cultural dominance and perceived threats from other global powers. He believed in the European project, contending that it could offer traditionalists a shield against modern challenges. This notion of a unified Europe, once mostly championed by liberal groups, may find growing appeal among conservatives, especially in light of rising external pressures.
Recent developments suggest a shift, with some right-leaning figures softening their stances on EU integration. For example, Marine Le Pen in France has adjusted her rhetoric to broaden her electoral base, while Giorgia Meloni in Italy has been more accommodating towards Brussels than anticipated. Despite these changes, the more entrenched elements of the hard right continue to struggle with the transition from skepticism to endorsement of European unity.
The idea of a hard-right euro-federalist may have seemed implausible a decade ago, yet current rhetoric from the hard right indicates a gradual acceptance of a need for collective governance in response to external threats. As discussions around “European civilization” gain traction, the concept of states working together for cultural preservation becomes increasingly plausible. The hard right’s potential shift towards supporting a United States of Europe may not be as distant as it once seemed.
Why this story matters
- It highlights the evolving political landscape in Europe, particularly among right-wing factions.
Key takeaway
- A growing portion of the hard right may view EU unity as essential for countering global threats.
Opposing viewpoint
- Skeptics argue that traditional hard-right ideological tenets are incompatible with a unified European identity.
