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The New Dawn of European Democracy: Parliament Embarks on Historic Tenth Term
In a significant moment for European democracy, Roberta Metsola, the outgoing President of the European Parliament (EP), officially convened the constitutive session of the tenth parliamentary term on Tuesday in Strasbourg. This marks the formal establishment of the European Parliament following continent-wide elections held from June 6 to 9, ushering in a new era of representation for over 440 million European citizens.
The constitutive session promises to be a captivating spectacle, witnessing the election of the Parliament's President and Bureau, responsible for the institution's day-to-day operations. Metsola, representing the European People's Party (EPP, center-right pro-European), is widely expected to secure a resounding mandate for a new two-and-a-half-year term. Her candidacy is bolstered by the support of three influential political groups – the EPP, the Socialists and Democrats (S&D), and Renew Europe (liberal and centrist).
Metsola's challenger in this electoral contest is former Spanish minister Irene Montero, a last-minute candidate put forth by the left-wing group, The Left. However, her bid is considered a long shot against the formidable coalition backing the incumbent Maltese President.
Following the presidential election, MEPs will elect the Bureau, comprising 14 vice-presidents and five parliamentary ushers (questeurs), crucial for overseeing the institution's functioning.
On Thursday, MEPs are scheduled to elect the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, the EPP's candidate, widely anticipated to secure a second five-year term.
The tenth parliamentary term will see a slight increase in representation, with the European Parliament comprising 720 seats, 15 more than the previous legislature. Notably, 54% of MEPs will be serving their first term, slightly down from 61% in 2019. Women will hold 39% of parliamentary seats, marginally lower than the 40% in the previous term.
The new Parliament will consist of eight political groups, one more than the previous legislature, with 33 MEPs remaining unaffiliated as non-inscrits.
The EPP emerged as the victor in the recent European elections, securing 188 seats, closely followed by the S&D with 136 seats. Their allies in Renew Europe garnered 77 seats, trailing behind far-right formations, notably "Patriots for Europe" (84 seats) and the ECR (78 seats).
As the European Parliament embarks on its historic tenth term, the stage is set for a dynamic interplay of ideologies, priorities, and visions for the future of the continent. With renewed representation and a commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, transparency, and accountability, the Parliament stands poised to tackle pressing challenges facing the European Union, from economic resilience to climate action and the preservation of fundamental rights.