In 2026, the European Union faces a growing internal crisis: rights are eroding, and democracy is backsliding in ways that threaten the very foundation of the Union. A new report from Renew Europe highlights the dangerous links between anti-rights movements, democratic decline, and external geopolitical pressure. The pattern is clear: as Europe weakens internally, it becomes more vulnerable to manipulation from abroad.
Anti-rights movements are not just cultural outliers—they are organized, funded, and strategically aligned with external actors seeking to destabilize the EU. From Poland to Hungary, these movements exploit national grievances to undermine EU values, creating fissures that weaken the Union’s collective strength. The result is a fragmenting Europe, where shared principles are replaced by nationalist agendas.
The European Parliament has taken notice. At the High-Level Geopolitical Dialogue, Commission members warned that the erosion of rights is not an isolated issue—it is a strategic vulnerability. Without a coordinated response, the EU risks losing its moral authority and its ability to lead on global issues.
The path forward requires both internal reform and external resilience. Member states must reaffirm their commitment to EU values, and the Union must enforce accountability where rights are violated. The crisis is not just about politics—it is about the future of Europe itself. If the EU cannot protect its internal democracy, it cannot protect its external security.
