Story perspectives

Europe Faces Energy Crisis Amid Rising Populism and Democracy Threats

4/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Iran war drives a European energy crisis with rising fuel prices and shortages.
The European Union is unwinding parts of the Green Deal to boost competitiveness, pressured by right-wing populism and U.S. energy demands.
Hungary's upcoming election poses a democracy threat as Viktor Orbán, Hungary's prime minister, has eroded judicial independence and media freedom.
Similar trends are emerging in Italy, Croatia, and Germany, raising concerns about democratic backsliding across Europe.

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Story summary

The Iran war drives a European energy crisis with rising fuel prices and shortages.
The European Union is unwinding parts of the Green Deal to boost competitiveness, pressured by right-wing populism and U.S. energy demands.
Hungary's upcoming election poses a democracy threat as Viktor Orbán, Hungary's prime minister, has eroded judicial independence and media freedom.
Similar trends are emerging in Italy, Croatia, and Germany, raising concerns about democratic backsliding across Europe.