The European Parliament, the world’s only directly elected transnational assembly, significantly influences the future of the European Union (EU) and its expansion. Every five years, EU citizens elect Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to represent their interests on a continental scale. The latest elections, held from June 6th to 9th, 2024, have produced preliminary results that could reshape the accession prospects of candidate countries. This blog explores how these election outcomes will impact the EU’s enlargement strategy and the future of nations aspiring to join the union.
Role of EU Parliament in Accession Decisions
The European Parliament has a major say in the EU’s enlargement process. Its role extends beyond mere advisory, as it must give its consent to the accession of any new member state. This consent is not just a formality; it reflects the collective will of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) who represent the diverse political landscapes of the EU. According to the World Economic Forum, the institution’s involvement in the accession process ensures that the enlargement is thoroughly vetted for adherence to democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law.
In formal terms, the European Parliament has one very clear role: it has to vote by a qualified majority at the end of the accession negotiations, in order to permit the ratification of each accession treaty (article 49 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) ). The parliament’s committees, particularly the Committee on Foreign Affairs, play a crucial role in scrutinizing the progress of candidate countries. These committees draft reports and recommendations that influence the Parliament’s final decision. As such, the political composition of the Parliament, shaped by the elections, directly impacts the stance the EU will take regarding new member states.
Current Political Climate and Election Trends
The political climate within the EU has been marked by a rise in nationalist and eurosceptic parties, which has had a profound effect on the Parliament’s approach to enlargement. The 2024 elections, for instance, saw a significant rise for right-wing and eurosceptic parties, although the predicted landslide did not materialize. These election results are indicative of broader trends within the EU, where issues like migration, economic disparity, and sovereignty dominate the discourse.
This shift in political dynamics can alter the prioritization of enlargement on the EU’s agenda. Eurosceptic parties often view enlargement with suspicion, fearing it may dilute the EU’s cohesion or strain its resources. On the other hand, pro-European parties typically advocate for enlargement as a means of spreading stability and democratic values across Europe. The balance of power between these factions within the European Parliament ultimately dictates the pace and enthusiasm for admitting new members.
Will the European Parliament Elections Impact the EU’s Enlargement Agenda?
Given the crucial role of the European Parliament in the accession process, elections undoubtedly influence the enlargement agenda. For candidate countries, the composition of the Parliament post-election can either accelerate or hinder their accession process. The 2024 elections, with their mixed results, have set the stage for complex negotiations within the Parliament regarding enlargement.
The European People’s Party (EPP), which remains the largest bloc, traditionally supports enlargement under stringent conditions. However, the growing influence of eurosceptic groups may lead to more stringent criteria for accession, increased scrutiny, and potentially, a slower enlargement process. Conversely, should pro-enlargement factions secure key positions within parliamentary committees, they could drive a more favorable and proactive enlargement policy.
Prioritization or De-prioritization of Enlargement Within the European Parliament
The prioritization of enlargement within the European Parliament is contingent upon the political priorities set by its members. Historically, the Parliament has played a monitoring role in supporting the enlargement process, viewing it as integral to the EU’s mission of promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in Europe.
However, the rise of internal EU challenges, such as economic recovery post-COVID-19, the Green Deal, and digital transformation, might lead to a deprioritization of enlargement. These pressing issues could overshadow the enlargement agenda, diverting attention and resources away from it. Nonetheless, the Parliament’s commitment to upholding democratic values and human rights remains a constant, ensuring that candidate countries continue to progress towards meeting accession criteria.
The European Parliament’s resolution power and its ability to influence public opinion play a critical role in maintaining enlargement as a priority. The Parliament’s stance on enlargement, therefore, is a reflection of its composition, influenced by the latest electoral outcomes.
Forging the Future
As we look toward the future, it’s clear that the European Parliament elections hold substantial power in shaping the EU’s enlargement policy. With the political landscape continuously evolving, the stakes for candidate countries remain high. The mixed results of the 2024 elections suggest a complex path ahead, emphasizing the need for proactive engagement and strategic alliances within the Parliament. Candidate countries and stakeholders must closely monitor these developments and advocate for policies that support a cohesive and inclusive EU expansion. By understanding and engaging with the electoral process, we can help shape a future that balances stability, growth, and unity in Europe.
