Upcoming EU elections signal political shifts across member states amid economic and security crises.
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Several European Union member states are holding elections this year, three are changing their presidents, and others have major regional elections. Hungary’s election is expected to be highly watched due to Viktor Orbán’s premiership, while Germany and France are anticipated to yield interesting results that could confirm the rise of the far-right. Recent political changes include Romania electing a new president in 2025, presidential elections in Poland won by Karol Nawrocki, Christian Democrats returning to power in Germany, and Andrej Babiš being re-elected in Czechia.
The year 2026 is set to be electorally intense for the EU, with several member states holding new parliamentary elections (Slovenia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Sweden, Latvia, Denmark) and three electing new presidents (Portugal, Estonia, Bulgaria). Major regional elections will take place in Germany, France, and Spain. These potential shifts in government occur amid high tension within the bloc due to economic issues and multiple security crises, including ongoing support for Ukraine against Russian hybrid warfare.
In Portugal, Socialist Antonio Jose Seguro is set to face far-right leader Andre Ventura in a second round of presidential elections, highlighting political fragmentation. In France, upcoming municipal elections will serve as a test run before crucial 2027 presidential elections amid continuous political paralysis and economic challenges. The French left coalition is fractured, while the far-right candidate has regional potential.
Hungary’s April 2026 parliamentary elections are seen as decisive for Europe, determining if Viktor Orbán’s long-standing “illiberal” government can maintain power despite EU concerns over the rule of law. Opposition leader Péter Magyar is gaining ground against Fidesz, though analysts note Orban’s established control over state institutions and media.
In Spain, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez faces pressure following poor regional election results in Extremadura and ongoing corruption scandals, with upcoming regional tests crucial for both PSOE and the center-right Popular Party (PP).
Other elections include parliamentary polls in Slovenia and Latvia, and a presidential election in Estonia. Bulgaria is heading into early parliamentary elections amid severe political instability and public protests against perceived oligarchic influence. In Germany, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) is gaining strength in Eastern states and aims for total control, despite security concerns over its extremism. Sweden’s September general election will indicate the strength of populism amidst debates on immigration and energy policy, while Denmark faces national elections amid concerns over territorial integrity.
