To reverse the ‘greenlash’, Europe’s Green parties should embrace Polanski’s boldness
Be more strident and ambitious, take on economic inequality, and progressive voters will reward you as they have the UK’s Greens
TL;DR
- European Green parties have experienced stagnation and crisis in recent years after a "green wave" in 2019.
- A "greenlash" against climate policies has led to Green parties dropping out of government coalitions and underperforming in elections.
- The Green party of England and Wales has seen a surge in popularity, with a historic byelection win and record local election results.
- The UK Green party's success is attributed to leader Zack Polanski's shift in focus from environmental issues to economic inequality, cost of living, and housing.
- Lessons for other European Green parties include emphasizing redistributive policies and economic inequality, maintaining clear positions on social issues like trans rights, and embracing progressive identity politics.
- Broadening the agenda to include economic inequality does not diminish credibility on climate issues and can increase support.
- Strong stances on issues like trans rights can increase support and allow focus on other agenda items.
- Embracing progressive identity politics and engaging with activists and marginalized groups can create an electoral vehicle for disillusioned voters.
- European Green parties are advised to be bolder and clearer in their message, potentially becoming the dominant left-of-centre force due to the weakness of social democratic parties.