In the European Parliament, the Green group is positioning itself as the key to securing European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s re-election. While von der Leyen seeks support from MEPs for a second term, her European People’s Party is not planning to expand its existing alliance with the Socialists & Democrats and Renew group. The Greens could provide the support she needs, as the EPP has indicated they will not include the Green group in their platform. The cooperation between the three largest groups in the parliament is more like a platform than a formal coalition, with discussions revolving around the political priorities set by von der Leyen.
After the EPP emerged on top in the EU elections, von der Leyen reached out to the S&D and Renew groups to discuss cooperation. The Green group, however, has made it clear that they will withhold support if von der Leyen makes any deals with the far-right. This highlights the importance of securing a diverse range of support beyond the traditional centrist parties. Von der Leyen’s leadership of the European Green Deal has faced criticism within her own political group, making the upcoming confirmatory vote a crucial moment for her re-election bid.
During a meeting with the co-presidents of the Greens, von der Leyen discussed the need for broad support to ensure her second term. The potential loss of support from the S&D or other groups if she engages with the far-right adds complexity to her negotiations. The political guidelines for the next Commission are still being finalized, with each group outlining their demands for von der Leyen. The S&D has emphasized that they will not form alliances with those who seek to dismantle the EU, while the Renew group is working on setting their priorities and conditions for supporting von der Leyen.
The ongoing discussions in the European Parliament are focused on the political program of the next Commission, rather than forming a formal coalition. Von der Leyen’s ability to navigate these complex dynamics will determine her chances of securing a second term. The Greens, along with other groups, are exerting pressure on von der Leyen to address a broad range of concerns and ensure a diverse base of support for her re-election bid. With the confirmatory vote scheduled for later this month, the negotiations are reaching a critical stage where the future direction of the Commission will be decided.
As von der Leyen navigates the political landscape to secure support for her re-election, the role of the Green group becomes increasingly important. With the potential for shifts in alliances and new coalitions, von der Leyen must carefully balance the demands of various political groups to ensure a successful second term. The upcoming confirmatory vote will be a key moment in determining the level of support von der Leyen can mobilize, and whether she can overcome the challenges posed by a fragmented European Parliament. By engaging with a diverse range of political parties and addressing their concerns, von der Leyen can strengthen her position and increase her chances of securing a second term as European Commission President.
