Greece’s main opposition SYRIZA party calls for joint action from European left against emerging far-right

By Ahmet Gencturk

ATHENS (AA) - Greece’s main opposition SYRIZA party on Wednesday called for a joint action from the European left against the emerging far-right.

In a letter he sent to European Left President Walter Baier, European Socialists President Stefan Lovfen and the European Green Party’s Thomas Maitz and Melanie Vogel, SYRIZA leader Stefanos Kasselakis said: “The outcome of the recent European Elections was profoundly concerning for progressive forces across Europe.”

Drawing attention to the fact that the conservative European People’s Party bloc once again came in first in the election, he said: “This is even more troubling because of the increased electoral power of far-right and chauvinist parties, which pose an alarming threat to the future of the European Union. Judging by the results, our commitment to a more socially responsible Europe did not convince most Europeans.”

He stressed that there is a dire need to protect the union’s fundamental freedoms and values.

Kasselakis said the EU faces a number of challenges, including protecting human rights and the rule of law, promoting an effective and just migration policy, addressing the climate crisis, promoting European strategic autonomy, ensuring a sustainable economy and achieving an immediate cease-fire in the Gaza and peace in Ukraine.

“At this critical juncture, it is imperative that all progressive political forces come together. We must create a political front that can effectively counter the rise of far-right and ultra-conservative forces. This front should result from a coherent political dialogue and the convergence of left, progressive and green forces as well as social movements. Our unity is our strength, and it's the key to shaping the future of Europe,” he said.