The rise of far-right candidates in European elections has been a growing concern in recent decades. Many analysts attribute their success to economic distress, social anxieties, and political disillusionment. However, one particularly controversial yet critical factor is the correlation between lower educational attainment and support for far-right parties. While not all supporters of these movements are uneducated, studies suggest that a significant proportion of their voter base consists of individuals with lower formal education levels. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial in addressing the broader political and social consequences it entails.
The Link Between Education and Political Preferences
Education plays a significant role in shaping political attitudes. Individuals with higher levels of education tend to be more exposed to diverse perspectives, critical thinking skills, and analytical reasoning, which contribute to more nuanced political views. In contrast, those with lower education levels may be more susceptible to populist rhetoric, simplistic solutions to complex problems, and emotional appeals.
Several studies across Europe have highlighted this pattern. A report by the Pew Research Center found that individuals with lower education levels were more likely to support nationalist and anti-immigrant parties. Similarly, research conducted in Germany, France, and Italy has shown that the less educated tend to vote for parties that emphasize nationalism, protectionism, and skepticism towards globalization.
Economic Anxiety and Job Insecurity
One of the most pressing concerns for many voters with lower educational qualifications is economic insecurity. Globalization, automation, and shifting labor markets have disproportionately affected low-skilled workers. Traditional manufacturing jobs, once a staple of working-class employment, have declined, leading to economic uncertainty and job losses. This demographic often views far-right parties as champions of their economic grievances, promising protectionist policies, stricter immigration controls, and economic nationalism.
For example, in France, Marine Le Pen’s National Rally (Rassemblement National) has gained substantial support from blue-collar workers and individuals in economically depressed regions. Similarly, in Germany, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) has capitalized on fears of economic displacement, particularly among lower-income voters who feel abandoned by mainstream parties.
Immigration and Cultural Identity
Far-right parties across Europe have consistently used immigration as a rallying point to gain electoral support. Their messaging often frames immigrants as economic threats, cultural invaders, or even security risks. Those with lower education levels, who may have less exposure to multicultural environments or critical media literacy skills, can be more susceptible to such narratives.
A clear example of this dynamic is seen in the United Kingdom, where Brexit was largely driven by concerns over immigration. Studies found that voters with lower education levels were significantly more likely to support leaving the European Union. Similar trends can be observed in Italy, where Matteo Salvini’s League (Lega) has used anti-immigrant rhetoric to galvanize support among working-class and rural voters.
Distrust in Mainstream Politics and Media
Another major factor contributing to the rise of far-right support among less-educated voters is distrust in mainstream institutions. Many feel that traditional political parties, media outlets, and academic institutions do not represent their interests or concerns. This has led to the rise of alternative media sources, often spreading misinformation, conspiracy theories, and populist narratives that reinforce far-right ideologies.
The rise of social media has further exacerbated this issue. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube have enabled the rapid spread of far-right propaganda, often targeting individuals who feel alienated from mainstream society. Echo chambers and algorithm-driven content reinforce preexisting biases, making it easier for far-right parties to mobilize support among the less-educated segments of the population.
The Role of Rural vs. Urban Divide
Education levels are often linked to geographic factors. Urban areas tend to have higher concentrations of universities, cultural institutions, and economic opportunities that attract educated individuals. In contrast, rural areas, where educational attainment is generally lower, have seen a stronger shift towards far-right politics.
This urban-rural divide has been particularly evident in countries like Poland and Hungary, where nationalist parties have secured overwhelming support in rural regions. The ruling Law and Justice Party (PiS) in Poland and Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz party in Hungary have both leveraged nationalist rhetoric to appeal to voters in less-developed areas, presenting themselves as defenders of traditional values against the perceived elitism of urban centers.
The Psychological Appeal of Far-Right Rhetoric
Beyond economic and social factors, psychological elements also play a role in why less-educated voters gravitate towards far-right candidates. Research in political psychology suggests that individuals with lower education levels are more likely to exhibit higher levels of authoritarianism, favoring strong leaders who promise order and stability.
Far-right parties often capitalize on this preference by presenting themselves as defenders of the “ordinary people” against corrupt elites, the media, and external threats such as immigrants or the European Union. This simplistic dichotomy of “us vs. them” is a powerful tool in mobilizing support among those who feel disempowered or marginalized.
Counteracting the Trend: Education and Political Awareness
Addressing the growing support for far-right movements requires long-term strategies that focus on education and political engagement. Several key initiatives can help counteract this trend:
- Improving Education Systems – Enhancing access to quality education, particularly in rural and economically disadvantaged areas, can equip individuals with critical thinking skills that make them less susceptible to populist rhetoric.
- Media Literacy Programs – Teaching people how to identify misinformation and engage critically with news sources can help counter the influence of far-right propaganda.
- Economic Support and Job Training – Providing opportunities for skill development and employment can reduce economic anxieties that far-right parties exploit.
- Community Engagement – Encouraging dialogue between different social groups can reduce fear and misunderstanding, fostering more inclusive societies.
- Strengthening Democratic Institutions – Reinforcing trust in democratic processes and mainstream political parties can help restore faith in traditional governance structures.
Conclusion
The connection between lower education levels and support for far-right candidates in European elections is a complex issue driven by economic, social, psychological, and political factors. While not all less-educated individuals support far-right parties, the trend is significant enough to warrant attention. Addressing this challenge requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes education, economic inclusion, and social cohesion. By investing in these areas, European societies can work towards a more informed and resilient electorate, capable of resisting the lure of divisive and extremist politics.
By George Prince
