This week, almost 400 million European Union residents are voting to choose representatives for the European Parliament, known as MEPs, in a major worldwide democratic event.
Extreme right-wing parties are aiming to increase their influence as the cost of living and dissatisfaction among farmers are on the rise, with voters also considering the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine.
A major question being asked is if Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, will continue to lead as the visible representative of the EU.
How important is the European Parliament?
The European Parliament influences the course of EU legislation and policies through modifying and approving laws, as well as making decisions on global agreements and expansions. It is required to approve the EU’s yearly budget and has the power to request that the Commission suggest new laws.
MEPs monitor the activities of the Commission and Council. They are jointly responsible with the Council for approving laws proposed by the Commission.
The majority of Members of the European Parliament belong to political factions spanning from left to right, instead of being grouped by their country, which means they must often balance loyalties to their party or nation.
Historically, the European People’s Party (EPP) on the centre-right and the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D) on the centre-left have been the largest, but other groups are gaining importance.
Which are the main political groups?
One of the first tasks of the new MEPs will be to elect the president of the European Commission. The current president, Ursula von der Leyen, is seeking re-election.
The EU’s 27 heads of state or government, known as the European Council, will factor in the election results and then nominate a candidate, whose name is then presented to the Parliament. More than 50% of MEPs will have to approve the candidate.
Choosing the next Commission chief
One of the primary duties for the newly elected MEPs will be to choose the leader of the European Commission. The present leader, Ursula von der Leyen, is vying for another term in office.
The European Council, consisting of the EU’s 27 heads of state or government, will consider the election outcomes before selecting a nominee to present to the Parliament. The candidate will need approval from over half of the MEPs.
The EU’s political parties may benefit from employing a system of “lead candidates” – also known as Spitzenkandidaten in German – similar to the one used in 2014. Based on that principle, every group nominates a candidate for president prior to the elections, with the group holding the most seats having the authority to choose the president of the European Commission.
Just five years ago, the national leaders of the EU selected Ms von der Leyen, despite her not being a candidate. And they might once again decide not to choose the Spitzenkandidaten this time.
