The European Parliament elections on 9 June resulted in significant changes, with the far-right making notable advances compared to previous elections. The centre-right European People’s Party (EPP) retained its position as the largest parliamentary group, with Ursula von der Leyen re-elected as President of the European Commission.
The shift to the right is evident in the EU’s approach towards migrants and asylum seekers, signaling a likely reinforcement of the securitized policy already in place. Von der Leyen’s recent letter suggests exploring new strategies for managing asylum requests outside the EU, potentially externalizing border control measures.
In light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, the EU’s focus on the Middle East and North Africa is evolving. The region’s significance has increased due to changes in energy supplies post-Russian invasion. The EU’s engagement with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf countries is shifting, influenced by geopolitical dynamics.
The appointment of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas as the EU’s new foreign policy chief is expected to bring a focus on supporting Ukraine. With potential impacts on policies regarding the Gaza war, Israel-Palestine conflict, and security operations in the Red Sea, the EU’s foreign policy landscape is undergoing a transformation.
Conclusion
The EU’s future direction in foreign policy, migration, and security is set to be shaped by the outcomes of the European elections and ongoing global challenges. As the EU navigates through a changing geopolitical landscape, it will need to balance its internal dynamics with external pressures to maintain stability and coherence.