Political careers are often non-linear, marked by ups and downs, defeats and wins. In the dynamics of European politics, comeback stories are not just inspiring; they are lessons in perseverance, adaptability, and strategic foresight. This article explores five stories where political figures and parties have made significant returns to the political forefront.
Matteo Renzi: a strategic pivot from Italian politics to European ambitions
Former Prime Minister of Italy and current Senator for Campania, Matteo Renzi has been a central figure in Italian politics. Renzi first came to national prominence as the young, dynamic Mayor of Florence, leveraging his position to ascend to the premiership in 2014 as leader of the centre-left Democratic Party (PD). During his tenure, he implemented substantial economic reforms and attempted a major constitutional reform to reduce the powers of the Senate. However, his career faced a major setback after the reform was defeated in a 2016 referendum, leading to his resignation.
After his popularity declined, he quit the PD and founded Italia Viva in 2019, aiming to maintain his influence in Italian politics with his small new centrist party. Despite struggling to surpass electoral thresholds, his strategic alliances helped him secure a seat in the Senate. Renzi has now set his sights on a broader stage, officially announcing his candidacy for the European Parliament in the 2024 elections, with support from prominent European figures including French President Emmanuel Macron.
Renzi’s ambitions include influencing European Union policies and potentially securing a significant role such as the President of the European Council. Still only 49, his pro-European stance and tactical skills position him as a potential player in shaping the future of the EU.
Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova: a trailblazer in North Macedonian politics
Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, 71, has made history as the first female president of North Macedonia. Her recent election, with nearly 65 percent of the vote, marked a significant political comeback for her conservative nationalist VMRO-DPMNE party and a historic moment for the country as she reversed her 2019 defeat in the presidential elections.
After losing to pro-European social democrat Stevo Pendarovski in 2019, Siljanovska-Davkova ran again in 2024 and won decisively in a rematch. Her victory came amid widespread public discontent with the slow pace of economic growth and progress toward European Union membership, which also saw the governing Social Democrats suffer significant electoral losses.
While the presidency has few executive powers, which are mostly vested in the prime minister and government, Siljanovska-Davkova can use her figurehead role to make political and diplomatic gestures. She did just that at her inauguration in May when she called her country by its previous name of Macedonia rather than the constitutional name North Macedonia, triggering a diplomatic row with Greece. Her outspoken stance may have negative repercussions for Skopje’s negotiations to join the EU.
David Cameron: an unexpected return to the heart of British politics
David Cameron, former Conservative Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, returned to the political forefront as the Foreign Secretary under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in a surprise appointment in 2023. His return was striking given his resignation as premier in 2016 after he lost the Brexit referendum, marking it as one of the most notable comebacks in British political history. Cameron’s premiership from 2010 to 2016 was marked by controversial austerity measures, victory in a referendum on Scottish independence, and the miscalculated calling of a referendum on the UK’s membership of the European Union.
He governed for four years in coalition with the centrist Liberal Democrats, imposing fiscal austerity in the wake of the global financial crisis. After resigning after losing the Brexit vote, a decision he described with the poignant remark “I was the future once,” Cameron’s re-entry into politics as Foreign Secretary was unexpected, bringing a calm, experienced hand on complex issues such as the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. His international experience and relationships with many global leaders helped to restore some of Britain’s influence.
However, his comeback seemed likely to be short-lived after Sunak called a general election for July 2024 which the Conservatives are projected to lose heavily.
Alexis Tsipras: from national crisis to renewed confidence
Alexis Tsipras, the former leader of the leftist SYRIZA party and former Prime Minister, is known for his charismatic leadership during one of Greece’s most turbulent economic periods. Tsipras initially captivated the Greek public and international observers by challenging austerity measures imposed by the EU and IMF. His government’s tenure was marked by a controversial bailout referendum in 2015, which, despite a public rejection of further austerity, was followed by a capitulation to even tougher conditions.
After resigning briefly in the aftermath of the bailout agreement, Tsipras managed to return to power later the same year. He repositioned SYRIZA as a pragmatic force, which helped to stabilise his leadership despite the initial backlash over his handling of the crisis. His ability to maintain his party’s unity and appeal to the electorate’s desire for a dignified stance against austerity was crucial.
Tsipras continues to play a significant role in Greek politics, aiming to help lead his party back to power by capitalising on his experience and the lessons learned during his previous terms. He remains a prominent voice against neoliberal policies, advocating for social justice and equitable growth.
Radek Sikorski: a statesman shaping European affairs
Radosław (Radek) Sikorski is an influential figure in European and global politics, currently serving as Poland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs since December 2023. His extensive experience spans various high-profile roles, including having been Minister of Defense, Foreign Minister, Speaker of the Polish Parliament, and a member of the European Parliament. As an MEP, he sat on the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Security and Defence Subcommittee, and was Chairman of the Delegation for relations with the United States. His strategic initiatives, like launching the EU’s Eastern Partnership alongside Sweden’s Carl Bildt and leading the EU mission to Kiev in 2014, which helped ensure the peaceful triumph of the Maidan pro-democracy protest movement, have had significant impacts on Europe’s approach to its eastern neighbours.
The Oxford-educated journalist and politicians return to the role of Minister of Foreign Affairs comes at a critical time for Poland and Europe. His reappointment underscores his reputation as a seasoned diplomat, capable of handling crises effectively, a skill that remains vital amid ongoing regional tensions. In a brilliant speech to parliament, he defined Poland’s and potentially Europe’s foreign policy direction. His expertise and oratory have strengthened Poland’s position in international forums, advocating for robust European unity and security measures. He is now widely seen as a top candidate for a senior European Commission role such as the proposed new defence portfolio.
Key lessons from Europe’s resilient leaders
The political comebacks of figures like Renzi, Siljanovska-Davkova, Sikorski, and Cameron illustrate a powerful lesson: resilience and strategic reinvention are crucial for enduring success in politics. These leaders demonstrate that with the right combination of experience, adaptability, and timely repositioning, it is possible to overcome setbacks and significantly influence both national and international policy. Their journeys offer valuable insights into the art of political survival and the importance of remaining responsive to changing political climates.
