The right-wing bloc, European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), led by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has secured prominent positions on over a dozen committees in the European Parliament post the EU elections. Among the 20 committees and four subcommittees, ECR was assigned 13 positions, including three chair positions and 10 vice chair positions. Notably, members of Meloni’s far-right Brothers of Italy party have received seven positions, marking a significant increase from the previous parliamentary term. Despite concerns about the normalization of the far right, ECR co-chair Nicola Procaccini hailed the bloc’s growing influence in EU parliamentary affairs.
As the ECR’s presence in influential committee leadership roles grows, questions arise about its potential impact on democratic values and legislation within the European Parliament. Observers suggest that the rise of far-right representatives, particularly from the Brothers of Italy, could threaten key aspects of European integration and democratic norms.
Rise of Far-Right Influence in the EU Parliament
While not all ECR parties are considered far-right, the dominance of Brothers of Italy has raised concerns among lawmakers and analysts, with worries about the potential negative effects on policies related to women’s rights, press freedoms, and immigration. As the bloc pushes for a renegotiation of key aspects of the EU’s Green Deal, concerns are mounting about the far right’s influence on environmental legislation and European values.
Despite efforts to moderate extreme positions, leaders like Meloni still face scrutiny for their past affiliations and policies, particularly concerning media freedom and adherence to European standards. With the ECR and Brothers of Italy asserting their presence in committee roles, the European Parliament is witnessing a notable shift towards the far right, prompting debates about safeguarding democratic principles amidst growing political polarization and ideological differences.
Tags: European Parliament, ECR, Giorgia Meloni, Brothers of Italy, Far-Right, Democratic Values, Committee Leadership, EU Legislation, Environmental Policies