The forthcoming European Parliament could see a substantial shift in the balance of power, driven by polling that suggests a stronger right flank. Based on surveys summarized by the Brussels-based outlet Euractiv, a notably higher number of MEPs from right-leaning groups are likely to sit in the next Parliament. In particular, the Identity and Democracy Group appears poised to rank third in seat shares, signaling a potential reconfiguration of influence across the chamber.
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The Euractiv overview highlights that the Identity and Democracy Group, which includes the French politician Marine Le Pen, could significantly enhance its position in the European Parliament and ascend to the third-largest bloc by vote count, trailing only the European People’s Party and the Socialists and Democrats.
The analysis notes that this shift would strengthen the political right within the Parliament, incorporating the European People’s Party, the European Conservatives and Reformists, Identity and Democracy, and Hungary’s Fidesz, which remains outside formal parliamentary groups in the assembly.
As an illustration, the groups have previously voiced opposition to certain environmental policies and resource management measures proposed at the European level, a stance that may reverberate in future debates on ecological and energy legislation.
These dynamics could influence the trajectory of environmental policy as the Parliament considers regulation in areas such as natural resource stewardship and sustainable development.
The European Conservatives and Reformists are projected to become the fifth-largest group, with around 80 MEPs, up from 67 today. They would sit just behind Renew Europe, which is expected to grow to about 84 seats. Such shifts would be unfavorable for the Liberals, signaling a loss of roughly 16 seats compared with the current distribution. The Greens are anticipated to decrease further, dropping from 71 seats to around 50.
In parallel, the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats is forecast to reach roughly 143 seats, a modest gain from the current total of 141. The European People’s Party is projected to retain its central position, potentially increasing to about 178 seats in the next Parliament. The Left Group is expected to experience a slight contraction, with around 37 seats versus 38 presently.
Recent coverage also highlighted ongoing debates around trade and international relations, including discussions on duty-free arrangements with Ukraine and other regulatory matters that could shape the legislative agenda as the Parliament prepares for the new term.
These projections come amid a broader context of electoral shifts across Europe, where voter concerns about energy security, climate policy, and economic stability are influencing party strategies. While estimates vary, they underscore the likelihood of a more pronounced representation from right-leaning factions in the European Parliament, alongside the traditional heavyweights that have long shaped European policy direction. The next wave of MEPs will face a crowded agenda, balancing national interests with broader continental priorities in a rapidly evolving political landscape.
Source: wPolityce