The EPP's quiet realignment with Europe’s right-wing

While EPP chief Manfred Weber maintains that no formal coalition exists, the legislative reality tells a different story. Analysts and parliamentary insiders describe a deepening cooperation where rapporteurs and coordinators from the EPP, ECR, Patriots for Europe, and Europe of Sovereign Nations align on policy files long before they reach the floor. This trend, which began with procedural resolutions, has migrated into substantive areas like migration and border control, most notably seen in the successful passage of the contentious migrant returns regulation with 62% support.

The mechanics of the rightward shift

The ECR is playing a pivotal role as the bridge between the EPP and more nationalist factions, refashioning itself as a constructive conservative force. This strategic positioning has allowed the EPP to build conservative majorities that bypass traditional centrist allies. However, this pivot carries political risk; German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has already signaled potential consequences for relying on far-right votes. As the Parliament approaches its midterm, the EPP faces a narrowing path: continue its pragmatic, albeit controversial, partnership with the right or risk alienating the forces that have become instrumental to its current legislative agenda. With Roberta Metsola’s leadership bid potentially hinging on these same alliances, the decision will determine the political trajectory of the entire assembly.