By RFI
European Union president Herman Van Rompuy has warned of a rise of “populism” and “extremism” across the continent in the aftermath of the Front National’s 18 per cent vote in France’s presidential first round. Interior ministers are to discuss changing the rules of free movement within the EU on Thursday.
“Nationalist and extremist movements are on the rise; many of them blame ‘Brussels’ for bad news. There can only be one response. Telling the truth,” Van Rompuy wrote on Twitter during a visit to Romania on Wednesday.
“Europe’s leaders should show leadership instead of giving in the forces of the far right,” said European internal affairs commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom.
European leaders should give a serious consideration to the matter. Its a widespread issue. To provide a peaceful atmosphere in Europe politicians should abstain from arousing public sentiment on controversial issues. Its very important for a peaceful Europe of a future.