Copenhagen, Denmark – A surge in random assaults against politicians in Europe is causing concern as incidents of violence come from both the left and the right. The recent attack on Mette Frederiksen, Denmark’s center-left prime minister, highlights the dangers faced by elected officials in today’s society. Following the assault, Frederiksen expressed her shock and revealed that the experience had left her feeling intimidated.
The trend of increasing violence towards politicians can be attributed to various factors including social media threats, aggressive political discourse, and ongoing conflicts such as the divisive Middle East war. As a result, democracies and their representatives are increasingly at risk of targeted attacks. In Slovakia, Prime Minister Robert Fico survived being shot multiple times, attributing the attack to political opponents on the left.
Germany has also seen a rise in attacks, with far-right thugs targeting politicians reminiscent of the Nazi era. The murder of centrist politician Walter Lübcke by a neo-Nazi in 2019 marked a turning point, leading to a doubling of attacks on politicians in the country. The situation further escalates as violence increasingly targets individuals across the political spectrum.
In France, President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to challenge the far right in an upcoming parliamentary election reflects the growing risks faced by politicians. Macron himself has been the target of attacks in previous campaigns, raising concerns about the safety of political figures in the current climate. The rise of extremist violence motivated by nationalism and authoritarianism poses a significant threat to democracy in France and beyond.
In the UK, politicians are also grappling with heightened risks, with incidents such as the murders of MPs Jo Cox and David Amess still fresh in memory. The safety of female politicians, in particular, has become a significant concern, with some individuals resorting to personal security measures due to threats and attacks. The political landscape is evolving, with debates ongoing about the origins of political violence and the implications for democratic societies.
Amidst these challenges, the role of traditional politics is at risk of being overshadowed by various forms of violence including verbal, virtual, digital, and physical attacks. The potential resurgence of figures like Donald Trump in the US further complicates the situation, as leaders who normalize violence pose a threat to trust, tolerance, and peaceful change. As governments grapple with these complex issues, protecting politicians and citizens from political violence remains a critical priority.