Two years after the initial remigration conference, a more assured Martin Sellner positioned himself before journalists at a follow-up summit, offering interviews and elaborating on ideas he now claims are entering the mainstream. He argued passionately that Europeans suffer from a “very neurotic relationship” to their own ethnic and cultural identity, a condition he believes must be overcome. In his view, a pervasive “guilt complex” and “self-loathing,” stemming from the moral and political consensus after World War II, has crippled the continent’s sense of self. His message was a direct call to cast aside this historical baggage and embrace a renewed, unapologetic pride in Europe’s distinct heritage, framing it not as a fringe theory but as an increasingly accepted conversation.
The event’s significance was underscored by the attendance of established political figures, lending an air of legitimacy to the gathering. From Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, at least three politicians were present, including Bundestag member and party co-founder Kay Gottschalk, who stated he was there merely “to listen” as a visitor. Their presence, however passive, signaled a bridge between activist rhetoric and parliamentary politics. Further amplifying the transnational nature of this movement, Spain’s Vox party was represented by MPs Rocío de Meer and Carlos Quero on the speakers’ list, while British activist Sammy Woodhouse of Restore Britain also addressed the summit, illustrating a coordinated network of right-wing groups across European borders.
A stark contrast marked the treatment of different attendees, revealing the organizers’ careful media strategy. While accredited mainstream journalists were notably confined to the parking lot, denied entry to the event itself, a cadre of right-wing social media influencers with professional equipment were warmly welcomed inside. This selective access pointed to a preference for sympathetic channels that could broadcast the event’s message without critical filtration. The tension outside was palpable, exacerbated at one point by a drone that buzzed aggressively over the press pack, making repeated dives toward a female journalist—an act that felt intimidating and underscored the hostile atmosphere toward the traditional press.
Inside the venue, a different scene unfolded, one of celebration and community-building among supporters. The summit’s social media channels boasted of “enormous” interest, partly attributed to the presence of popular Italian influencer Tommaso Bovino. This reflected a modern political playbook where online clout and viral content are as valuable as formal policy papers. Attendees, energized by the speeches, engaged in the ritual of the digital age: queuing for selfies with speakers and fellow activists. This activity, seemingly mundane, served to strengthen in-group bonds, create shareable content for social networks, and personalize the political movement, turning abstract ideas into connected human experiences.
The summit, therefore, represented a multifaceted moment in the evolution of this particular political strand. On one level, it was a platform for doctrinal speeches like Sellner’s, aiming to refine and normalize concepts of remigration and ethno-cultural identity. On another, it was a networking hub, connecting politicians, activists, and influencers from across Europe. Most tellingly, it was a staged production with a clear awareness of narrative control, embracing friendly digital media while marginalizing critical journalistic inquiry. This approach suggests a movement learning to operate simultaneously in the realms of formal politics, grassroots activism, and the online attention economy.
In conclusion, the event was more than just a conference; it was a snapshot of a political ideology in transition, seeking to move from the margins toward broader acceptance. Through the presence of sitting MPs, the star power of online figures, and a deliberate strategy to manage its public image, the movement demonstrated growing organizational sophistication. The core message, as articulated by Sellner, remained a provocative call for a radical reclamation of identity, but it was now being delivered within a framework designed for maximum impact and legitimacy, signaling its proponents’ belief that their time is approaching.
