European Parliament Welcomes More Conservative Composition
The latest composition of the European Parliament has shifted towards a more conservative stance after five days of balloting, signaling a notable change in the political landscape of the European Union. The European People’s Party (EPP) has emerged victorious once again, securing 186 seats—ten more than in the previous election cycle. This puts the party in a strong position, with its leader, Ursula von der Leyen, likely to continue her role as President of the European Commission for another term.
In her remarks on the election outcomes, von der Leyen emphasized the party’s commitment to stability, stating, «We will be a pillar of stability, rejecting extremes from both sides.» This statement reflects the EPP’s intent to navigate the EU through the complexities of a changing political environment.
While the overall shifts in Brussels are modest, the EPP is expected to receive support from the centrist liberal group, Renew Europe. Despite a loss of 23 seats, Renew Europe still managed to secure third place with 79 seats, indicating its continued relevance in the parliamentary dynamics.
In contrast, the Socialists and Democrats experienced a setback, losing four seats and dropping to 135. The Greens and the Left also reported a decline in their representations, highlighting a broader trend of diminishing support for left-leaning parties. Notably, nationalist and far-right factions have witnessed a significant rise, collectively capturing 25% of the overall votes across the EU. The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) and the Identity and Democracy (ID) group have also gained seats, but these changes are not expected to lead to seismic shifts in the EU’s political direction.
As the new parliament convenes, it remains to be seen how these dynamics will influence future policies and the overall governance of the European Union.
