German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and PES President Stefan Lofven stood firmly against the far right at a high-level conference in Berlin. The declaration against the far right was approved, and leaders from across Europe signed it, reaffirming their commitment to unity against extremism.
The Party of European Socialists (PES) emphasized that they will always be a reliable voice against right-wing extremism and for democracy. This includes refusing any cooperation or alliance with the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) or Identity and Democracy (ID) in the European Parliament.
PES Spitzenkandidat Nicolas Schmit reiterated this stance, stating that cooperation with the far right is off the table. PES President Stefan Lofven underscored the importance of social democrats as the primary force for democracy, social progress, and solidarity in Europe.
The declaration serves as a reminder of the importance of standing together against forces that seek to divide society and undermine democratic values. It calls on all European democratic parties to unequivocally reject any association with the far right and uphold democratic principles. The rise of the far right is seen as a threat to citizens’ rights, well-being, and democratic principles, requiring a united front against it. Social democracy is framed as a project that unites citizens and defends their rights, freedoms, and equality. The commitment to oppose discrimination, hatred, and autocratic regimes aligns with the values of PES and its allies across Europe.