Jordan Bardella, the French MEP and president of the Patriots for Europe group, has been actively voting and expressing his views in the European Parliament since his re-election for a second term in June. His stance on key issues such as EU support for Ukraine, the ceasefire in Gaza, the new pact on migration and asylum, the European Green Deal, the Artificial Intelligence Act, the European recovery plan, and the European Health Pass have garnered attention and scrutiny.
When it comes to EU support for Ukraine, Bardella voted against a resolution calling for increased support for Ukraine against Russia’s aggression. He expressed concerns about the economic impact on France and risks of escalation with Russia. Bardella also opposed Ukraine’s entry into NATO and the EU, citing potential risks to France’s economy and agriculture. Despite criticism of the National Rally’s ambiguous links with Moscow, Bardella remains vocal about his views on Russia.
Bardella’s alignment with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the ceasefire in Gaza attracted attention. While he was in favor of Israel’s right to defend itself, he also voted for a non-binding resolution calling for a permanent ceasefire and restart of the peace process in Gaza. Bardella’s strong stance on border security and humanitarian aid in the region has been notable in his parliamentary activities.
His opposition to the new pact on migration and asylum reflects concerns about mass immigration posing a threat to Europe’s security and identity. Bardella voted against most texts in the pact addressing asylum applications, relocation of asylum seekers, and border screening. However, he supported measures related to data recording for irregular arrivals in the EU. His emphasis on national sovereignty and security resonates with his stance on migration policies.
Regarding the European Green Deal, Bardella criticized the impact on farmers and agricultural practices, citing concerns about agricultural yields and livestock numbers. His opposition to measures such as reducing pesticide use and packaging waste underlines his stance on punitive ecology. Bardella also voted against key targets for renewable energy use and diesel/petrol car phaseouts, highlighting his concerns about the EU’s environmental policies.
Bardella’s support for the Artificial Intelligence Act and calls for digital innovation underscore his stance on regulating AI for safety and innovation. He emphasized the need for a favorable framework for start-ups and increased research and development budgets to keep pace with global partners. Bardella’s role in advocating for digital advancements within the EU showcases his interest in technological progress and regulatory measures.
As for the European recovery plan and the European Health Pass, Bardella raised concerns about the costs and implications for France. While abstaining from voting on the recovery plan, he criticized the financial burden on member states and loss of sovereignty. He also opposed the European Health Pass, citing concerns about freedom in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Bardella’s focus on economic implications and individual freedoms shapes his decisions on key EU initiatives like recovery plans and health passes.
Overall, Bardella’s voting record and statements reflect his commitment to national sovereignty, security, and economic interests in the context of EU policies. His role as the chairman of the Patriots for Europe group signifies his influence in shaping debates and decisions on key issues within the European Parliament. As he navigates his new term, Bardella’s parliamentary activities and votes will continue to draw attention and scrutiny from his critics and supporters alike.
