This spring, we asked readers who support far-right parties in Europe to tell us why they had turned away from mainstream political movements. We received hundreds of responses from voters, most of whom cited concern about immigration and a desire to challenge the European Union in explaining their views.

Some took issue with being identified as far-right supporters, saying they were simply challenging a mainstream that did not reflect their beliefs or experiences. And many of the readers, who were predominantly male, would not give their names, saying they feared stigmatization.

These responses have been edited for length and clarity. And because many of the issues raised are highly contentious across Europe, we have provided context with each submission.

Mikael Jakobsen, 24, law student, Aarhus, Denmark

Party: Danish People’s Party

Symbolic politics of “helping” those who need help by inviting them in regardless of circumstances and economy don’t help. Our economy doesn’t increase along with the never-ending supply of immigrants. To help, you figure out the cause of the problem and fix it. It’s like buying buckets for a leaky roof instead of just fixing the roof itself.

• Denmark, along with other Nordic countries, has moved to slash benefits for migrants as arrivals increased last year.