Rival German lawmakers plot pact to shut out EU far right
Summary
Niclas Herbst and René Repasi, leaders of Germany's governing parties, want their European Parliament groups to form a formal coalition to counter the far right. The plan aims to replace the current reliance on fragile alliances with a structured German-style agreement. Herbst and Repasi argue that the EPP and S&D must unite to prevent populist gains and ensure legislative stability. They propose a governance structure to resolve disputes and allocate priorities, warning that continued mistrust will only empower extremists. The proposal comes as polls show the center losing 49 seats and the far right gaining influence.
Key points
- Herbst and Repasi want the EPP and S&D to form a formal coalition to pass legislation.
- The plan includes a governance structure to resolve disputes and allocate priorities.
- Polls indicate the center-right and center-left will lose 49 seats at the next election.
- The EPP has increasingly relied on far-right votes to pass key legislation.
- The proposal aims to reduce political stress for Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Timeline
EPP, S&D, and Renew sign a vague cooperation agreement.
MEPs send von der Leyen's EU-Mercosur trade deal for judicial review.
“If we don’t have trust, and if we don’t find good solutions, if we do not deliver for the people, the populists and extremists on the left and on the right will decide.”
Background
The EPP and S&D have drifted apart, with the EPP increasingly relying on far-right votes to pass legislation.
Why it matters
A formal pact could restore stability in the European Parliament and reduce political stress for the Commission.