I really like, and at the same time I really dislike these recent bans on running for office in Romania and France. On one hand, I like that Europe remembers its history and is actively trying to prevent the rise of extremism. On the other hand, once such bans become politically acceptable, some future governments may be tempted to use them more frequently or strategically, even against opponents who are simply inconvenient. This creates fears that it could open the door to more authoritarian behavior, especially in countries where the courts are not fully independent from political influence.
I fear that, paradoxically, the attempt to prevent extremism will fuel extremism, and that the desire to protect democracy from extremism might end up damaging democracy itself.
Although I agree with some of your points I don't think openly supporting genocidal regimes gives you the right to run for president , in Romania's case.
By the way doing that here is a penal ofence .
The problem with prosecuting these clowns is that you kinda turn them into a martyr for their voters and if you do the second in command probably comes out stronger .
Even now the favorite to win the first round for presidency is also a fascist apologist, far right , who by all means shouldn't be allowed to run , but he is left alone because you have to let someone eventually .
The problem with our system is and always will be lack of education.
40% , dumb people who don't know how to interpret a text , according to statistics doesn't look good for our future.
Think about it an obscure candidate touted with a 1 to 3% in polls , managed get 21% and win the first round, with massive financial support from tik tok in 2 weeks, where the attention span is like what 10 seconds.
That sums up the dangers of social media in low educated countries.