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Swedish politics has for decades been the very model of stability. Not any longer. Earlier this month a far-right party which holds the balance of power in Sweden’s parliament sided with the opposition to defeat the government. A snap election has been called, just months after the government was formed.

In Greece, where EU-imposed austerity has fuelled extreme politics, the radical left Syriza party could soon have a shot at gaining power. It is already the main opposition.

Elsewhere in Europe – in France, Spain, Hungary, Italy and elsewhere – far right and hard left parties have gained popular support and parliamentary seats, threatening the political centre. Can Europe resist the rise of radical politics?

(Photo: Shadow of Marine Le Pen. Credit: Jeff Pachoud/AFP/Getty Images)