EU’s Manfred Weber Warns Conservatives Against History Repeating Itself

Manfred Weber, current leader of the European People’s Party, gave a frank warning to modern conservatives. He made frightening comparisons to Adolf Hitler of the past. In our conversations for the podcast, Weber emphasized the importance of not repeating the past. This expertise is of profound importance to stop extremist ideologies from eroding democratic ideals in Europe. Recognizing that the political landscape is changing, Weber has gone out of his way to woo the far-right.

The European Parliament is currently considering an immunity waiver for the two legislators, Fulvio Martsuciello and Giusi Princi. This decision underscores the increased hand-wringing over all types of legislative issues. Parliament is still currently debating removing the immunity for the three lawmakers. This decision is marked by growing drama, including a violent confrontation last week between a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) and a staffman over the conflict in Gaza. Briefing on the attack The incident, which has caused nationwide outrage, Parliament administration now claims that security footage confirms the lawmaker’s account of the attack.

Belgium has gone out on a limb by calling on the European Parliament to waive the immunities of a number of MEPs. This unprecedented move joins the West’s investigation into a bribery scandal that also involves Huawei. Belgian authorities are keen to look into allegations concerning five MEPs linked to a cash-for-influence scheme, highlighting concerns about integrity and transparency within the legislative body.

Weber’s comments are emblematic of a larger anxiety within European politics over the rising tide of the far-right, anti-democratic wave. He needs to walk this tightrope without losing the center-moderates, who will definitely get spooked by extremist overreach. Our biggest challenge is keeping together. Just as important is the need to protect democratic norms and prevent far-right forces from taking advantage of any crisis to push their agenda.

The European People’s Party is the largest political bloc in the European Parliament. They’re key to the European Commission’s role in drafting legislation that will have ramifications for member states all across the continent. Weber would be key to keeping together the three different factions in their party. Along the way, he’s taking on outside pressures from allies and enemies alike.