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What unites the right in the European Parliament?

Author

Listed:
  • Philipp Broniecki

    (Department of Political Science, 6305University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway)

  • Bjørn Høyland

    (Department of Political Science, 6305University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway)

Abstract

This letter analyzes coalition patterns among right-wing groups in the European Parliament, exploring the conditions that lead these groups to unite on policy. Using voting records from 2019 to 2024 and Legislative Observatory data, we identify three coalition types: Grand Right (all right-leaning groups), Far Right (excluding the center-right European People’s Party), and Center Right+ (including at least one far-right group). The potential for right-wing unity is substantial, particularly on EU Integration, climate, security, and cultural issues. For 2024–2029, two possibilities for right coalitions emerge: the European People’s Party allies with the far-right on cultural, climate, and security issues, challenging the European Parliament’s progressive stance, or the far-right joins the center-right on economic issues, normalizing right-wing influence in EU policymaking.

Suggested Citation

  • Philipp Broniecki & Bjørn Høyland, 2025. "What unites the right in the European Parliament?," European Union Politics, , vol. 26(3), pages 637-644, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:eeupol:v:26:y:2025:i:3:p:637-644
    DOI: 10.1177/14651165251341573
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    References listed on IDEAS

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