The Rise of European Conservatism: CPAC’s Growing Influence Across the Continent
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In a significant political pivot, the rise of European conservatism is gaining momentum, propelled by the growing influence of the U.S.-based Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). Once known primarily as an American event championing conservative ideals, CPAC is now anchoring itself firmly in Europe, signaling a transatlantic shift in right-wing politics.
This past week, large CPAC gatherings took place in Poland and Hungary, drawing international conservative leaders and ideologues. With Poland on the brink of a pivotal presidential run-off between nationalist candidate Karol Nawrocki—endorsed by CPAC—and liberal Warsaw mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, the timing was deliberate and strategic. CPAC speakers framed the election as nothing less than a “battle for Western civilization.”
The European Expansion of CPAC
Traditionally a platform for U.S. conservatives, CPAC’s presence in Europe has ballooned since Donald Trump’s return to the White House. His influence over the Republican Party has reinvigorated nationalist movements abroad, echoing his populist messaging throughout European capitals.
Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban, long a symbol of European nationalism, opened the CPAC Hungary conference by declaring this era the “Age of Patriots.” In his view, this new age emphasizes sovereignty, traditional family structures, and a form of Christianity rooted in national identity.
Orban praised Trump as a “truth serum” for global politics and criticized progressive European policies, particularly the EU Green Deal, immigration policies, and “woke culture.” These themes resonated with leaders like Alice Weidel of Germany’s AfD and Geert Wilders of the Netherlands’ Freedom Party, both of whom shared the stage.
A Global Conservative Network Emerges
The CPAC events have fostered an environment of international collaboration among conservatives. The list of attendees read like a who’s who of global right-wing politics: former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss, former Australian PM Tony Abbott, and former Polish and Czech leaders Mateusz Morawiecki and Andrej Babis. There was even representation from India’s BJP, showcasing CPAC’s aim to build a worldwide anti-globalist coalition.
Kristi Noem, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security under Trump, used her Warsaw appearance to signal American support for Nawrocki, suggesting continued U.S. military and industrial backing if the nationalist wins.
Challenges Ahead for the Movement
Despite growing visibility, the European conservative wave has seen setbacks. Romania’s liberal mayor Nicusor Dan triumphed over nationalist George Simion. In Albania, MAGA-aligned Sali Berisha lost to incumbent Socialist leader Edi Rama, despite help from former Trump strategist Chris LaCivita.
Austria also delivered disappointment for the right, as a broad coalition sidelined Freedom Party leader Herbert Kickl in favor of Christian Stocker.
Even Viktor Orban, the movement’s European linchpin, is feeling political pressure. Hungary’s fertility rate—central to Orban’s nationalist policies—plunged to 1.28 in April, reigniting debates about the effectiveness of his long-standing family incentive programs.
Poland’s Election: A Tipping Point
The upcoming Polish presidential run-off is being seen as a referendum on the future of European conservatism. According to George Simion, if Nawrocki fails, Hungary could be next, with Orban’s rule possibly ending in next year’s elections.
While CPAC Europe displays unity, internal rifts—particularly regarding Ukraine and Russia—are emerging. Notably absent was Italy’s conservative Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, hinting at ideological divergences within the movement.
Conclusion: A Crossroads for European Conservatism
The rise of European conservatism is undeniably reshaping the political landscape. CPAC’s evolution from a U.S.-centric event into a global conservative nexus reflects broader changes in both American and European political ideologies. Whether this movement leads to lasting power shifts or falters under its internal contradictions remains to be seen.
What’s certain is that nationalism in Europe is no longer a fringe movement—it’s mainstreaming, coordinated, and well-funded. As Europe heads toward more elections in 2025, the world will be watching to see if this new conservative wave can deliver on its promises or if it will be rolled back by liberal opposition and internal fracture.
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