Brussels, 19 May 2026
The Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D), with support from the Greens, has circulated a political statement arguing that climate protection and the defence of democratic values are inseparable.
The statement criticises the growing influence of far-right parties in European climate negotiations and calls on democratic political forces to maintain the “cordon sanitaire” against cooperation with the far right.
The full text of the statement is reproduced below.
Climate protection must go hand in hand with the fight against the far right
How can we defend the core values of climate justice, adaptation policies and sustainable development without also defending democracy, respect for others and the inclusiveness of our societies? How come political parties that publicly question scientific consensus, relativise climate change or openly oppose environmental protections can be entrusted with shaping the future of our planet?
The climate crisis is not only an environmental challenge. It is also a democratic challenge. It requires trust in science, solidarity between generations, social justice and international cooperation. And these are precisely the values far-right movements across Europe systematically attack.
We, progressive and left-wing political parties, believe that respect for science and protection of the environment are fundamental principles at the core of our political action. We therefore strongly combat the growing influence of far-right parties in climate and environmental policymaking.
At the European Parliament, far-right groups have recently gained influence over negotiations on future EU climate targets while openly opposing ambitious emissions reduction policies, and advocating for obscurantist ecological behavior. This is the reality we are still facing this week in our negotiations, thus representing a direct threat not only to climate progress, but also to the credibility of Europe’s democratic commitment to future generations.
Protecting the climate and the environment goes hand in hand with defending democratic values, pluralism, human dignity and the rights of women, minorities and migrants. Climate justice cannot exist without social justice. Ecological transition cannot succeed if it is driven by fear, exclusion and nationalism. Rather, we think that the climate transition must be fair, inclusive and protective of workers and vulnerable communities.
For this reason, we believe that the right side of history is to firmly reject any alliance, cooperation or political normalisation of the far right.
Because they do not share the fundamental values that should underpin democratic political engagement, we call on all democratic parties to uphold the cordon sanitaire and refuse collaboration with far-right parties.
The far right has nothing to offer when it comes to protecting the environment, defending democracy or building a fairer future.
And therefore, we want nothing to do with them.
Signing parties : S&D tribune supported by The Greens (TRAN)