The European federalist movement Volt, which secured five MEPs in the recent European elections, has decided to remain in the European Parliament’s Green grouping. This decision, made by a poll of party members, ends speculation that they may join Emmanuel Macron’s centrist Renew party. Following the EU elections in early June, political parties are aiming to form larger coalitions to increase their funding and influence in the Parliament. While it was initially believed that the European People’s Party and socialists would be the largest coalitions, it now appears that Renew is lagging behind the right-wing Conservatives and Reformists group, ECR. Volt’s decision to stay in the Greens brings down Renew’s total MEP count to 74, while ECR now has 83 MEPs.
Renew, the party of France’s President Emmanuel Macron, has suffered significant losses in the EU elections, and is projected to face further defeats in upcoming legislative elections in France. Despite facing an angry electorate, Volt’s pro-European stance in the EU elections differentiated them from eurosceptic parties that often perform well in such campaigns. Volt ran under the same electoral platform in 16 different states, showcasing their commitment to a united Europe. Initially, Volt only had one lawmaker in the Greens, but now with the addition of two more MEPs from Germany and two from the Netherlands, they have solidified their presence in the group.
The final group memberships for MEPs will be confirmed at the European Parliament’s first meeting on 16 July, although they can potentially change throughout the Parliament’s five-year term. Volt’s decision to remain in the Greens reflects their commitment to European federalism and their shared values with the environmentalist group. Meanwhile, Renew’s recent setbacks have put them at a disadvantage compared to other political groups, such as ECR, which has seen an increase in MEPs by welcoming lawmakers from different nationalist parties. With Volt’s decision, the Greens now have 53 MEPs, despite their own losses in the recent elections.
The dynamics in the European Parliament are shifting as parties make strategic decisions to form coalitions that will enhance their influence and access to resources. Volt’s decision to stay in the Greens while Macron’s Renew party faces setbacks highlights the diverse political landscape within the European Union. The upcoming legislative elections in France on 30 June will further test Macron’s party’s popularity with voters. Despite the challenges facing Renew, the European federalist movement of Volt remains steadfast in their goal of promoting European unity and cooperation. The evolving group memberships within the European Parliament will continue to shape the political landscape in the EU over the next five years.
