Part 5/14:
Rising Political Discontent and Erosion of Trust
Economic struggles have translated into political upheaval. Support for populist and far-right parties has tripled since the 1990s, reaching nearly 30% of votes today. In Germany, the rise of the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), which capitalizes on anti-establishment sentiments, exemplifies growing disillusionment.
Trust in EU institutions has also eroded. Scandals involving lawmakers—ranging from bribery to harassment—highlight a politicized and opaque system. The European Commission, under leaders like Ursula von der Leyen, faces accusations of secrecy and evasiveness, deepening perceptions of an insulated bureaucratic elitism detached from ordinary Europeans' concerns.