Europe’s Got Post-Fascism

Thomas Mann, a notable beach house collector, snagged a summer retreat in Nida in 1929. This was a golden year for him, thanks to that shiny Nobel Prize in literature. Situated on the Curonian Spit, this Lithuanian gem is perfect for gazing at Kaliningrad, Russia’s ship-packed naval base.

The Mann with a Plan

In his comfy summer abode, Mann penned “Joseph and His Brothers” and wrote searing critiques of rising fascism. He warned the bourgeoisie about cozying up to right-wing extremists. His message? “Team up with the socialists or face doom.”

Nazi House Flippers

The Mann family enjoyed three summers in Nida before Nazis seized their home. They burned the Nobel laureate’s books, sending the family into exile. Mann’s warnings still echo today, as Europe faces a surge in right-wing politics.

Sunday’s EU elections might propel post-fascists to the forefront. This shift threatens the post-WWII European unity. Broad right-wing alliances could shatter the Franco-German collaboration that has stabilized the EU.

Meloni’s Spicy Meatball

Italy’s Giorgia Meloni heads a government packed with parties denying Mussolini’s atrocities. On the Resistance Day, she couldn’t muster a single critique of the fascist regime. Journalist Paolo Berizzi’s new book, “Il rittorno della bestia,” captures this resurgence. According to Berizzi, Meloni’s “daydream fascism” thrives on social media and flashy demonstrations.

Meloni dreams of amending Italy’s constitution for a tighter grip on power. Berizzi lives under police protection due to constant threats from right-wing extremists. Under Meloni, Italy’s press freedom is eroding.

Viva La Confusion!

On May 18-19, Meloni rallied EU’s right-wing populists in Madrid under the bold slogan “Viva 24.” Promising to crush environmentalists and immigrants, she envisions a “community of patriots.” Marine Le Pen embraced Meloni, uniting Europe’s right-wing factions. Viktor Orbán chimed in from Hungary, advocating for a Trump-like occupation of the EU Parliament.

Santiago Abascal, leader of Spain’s Vox, trashed the traditional right but still partners with them. Leaders like Geert Wilders and Jimmie Åkesson follow this playbook, aiming to elevate this strategy from national to European levels.

Ursula’s Unlikely Allies

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen calls for cooperation with Meloni, finding support from the Spanish and Swedish right. This threatens to destabilize the Franco-German axis that has anchored the EU. French President Emmanuel Macron views right-wing populism as the main adversary and proposes technocrat Mario Draghi as von der Leyen’s successor.

Mann’s Timeless Advice

Macron and other liberals should heed Thomas Mann’s advice: lean left or face the right-wing tide. Viktor Orbán’s vision for the EU is clear: nationalist, white, colonial, morally conservative, and anti-ecological. Meloni prefers Orbán over von der Leyen, leading Europe down a perilous path.

Achtung, Europa!

Will the EU become a playground for right-wing ideologues? Is Europe ready for the new wave of political chaos? No need to mention aliens at this time. The return of real-life WWII vibes is more terrifying than anything else.

They say you should be able to joke about anything. The problem is: Nothing is funny about Hitler. Nothing.