International coalitions
Parliamentarians form coalitions based on shared political beliefs rather than nationality. The hundreds of national political parties join various EP groups. A small number of parliamentarians (currently 50 seats) are not affiliated with any group and are classified as unaffiliated. The political affiliation of a group transcends individual parties. For example, we find the CDA and the Christian Union in the same EPP group, while the VVD and D66 are part of the Renew Europe group. Although members usually follow the views of their group while voting, this is not mandatory.
European People's Party (EPP).
The European People's Party, with 167 seats, is currently the largest political coalition in the European Parliament and consists of center-right parties with mainly Christian Democratic and conservative values. Ursula Von der Leyen, the current President of the European Commission, is again the EPP's Spitzenkandidat. In the Netherlands, the EPP is represented by the CDA and the Christian Union. The CDA has a strong focus on social cohesion, economic stability and international cooperation within the EU.
Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D).
The Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats is a coalition of center-left parties committed to social democratic and progressive ideals, such as social justice, equal opportunities and sustainable development. With 141 seats, they are the second-largest coalition. Nicholas Schmidt, the current European Commissioner for Employment and Social Rights, is the Spitzenkandidat for this election. In the Netherlands, the S&D is represented by the Partij van de Arbeid (PvdA). The PvdA is committed to fair distribution of wealth, good working conditions and an inclusive society. Despite their joint list of candidates, the PvdA and GroenLinks are unlikely to go into the same European group.
Renew Europe (formerly Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe)
Renew Europe is a coalition of center-liberal and center-right parties that emphasize individual freedom, economic growth and European integration. After the EPP and S&D, Renew Europe is the largest coalition with 101 seats. Renew has three Spitzen candidates for this election: Sandro Gozi, Valérie Hayer and Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmerman. In the Netherlands, Renew Europe is represented by D66 and the VVD. D66 is known for its progressive positions on education, democratic renewal and European cooperation. The VVD focuses on security, migration and economic growth. View the VVD's election program and candidate list here.
Greens/European Free Alliance (Greens/EVA).
The Greens/European Free Alliance is a coalition of green and regional parties committed to environmental protection, sustainability and cultural diversity. This group currently has 72 seats and is represented in the Netherlands by GroenLinks and Volt. GroenLinks is committed to a better climate, green economy and social justice, both nationally and at the European level. Volt focuses on a greener future and social justice, with a strong focus on European cooperation. Bas Eickhout and Terry Reintke are joint Spitzen candidates of the coalition.
European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR).
The European Conservatives and Reformists is a Eurosceptic and conservative coalition that advocates more national sovereignty and less EU integration. The coalition currently has 67 seats. In the Netherlands, JA21 and the SGP are represented within the ECR, as they often raise critical questions about further European unification. The ECR has decided not to appoint a Spitzenkandidat this election.
Confederal Group of the European United Left/Nordic Green Left (GUE/NGL)
The Confederal Group of the European United Left/Nordic Green Left is a coalition of leftist and socialist parties committed to workers' rights, social equality and international solidarity. This group currently holds 37 seats. The SP, which currently has no seat, and the Party for the Animals are affiliated with this coalition. The Party for the Animals focuses on the environment and animal welfare, and the SP seeks a social Europe that focuses on equality, solidarity and protection of labor rights.
Identity and Democracy (ID).
Identity and Democracy is a coalition of nationalist, Euroskeptic and populist parties advocating the preservation of national identity, tighter border controls and less EU integration. ID currently has 59 seats, but this number is expected to grow in the next term. In the Netherlands, the Partij voor de Vrijheid (PVV) and Forum voor Democratie (FvD) are represented within ID. These parties question the current direction of the EU and stress the importance of national sovereignty.
These coalitions and their Dutch representatives play a crucial role in shaping European policy and representing the interests of European citizens. By working together and making compromises, they strive for a strong, just and prosperous Europe.
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