New Regulations for European Political Parties Approved
New regulations enhance the operational framework for European political parties and foundations, focusing on funding and gender equality.
Key Points
- • Agreement on new rules for EU political parties and foundations reached.
- • Stricter gender equality obligations imposed on political parties.
- • New definitions introduce categories for associated members from various countries.
- • S&D group calls for further improvements in political foundation regulations.
A political agreement has been reached on new regulations governing European political parties and foundations, aimed at enhancing legal certainty and operational efficiency within the EU. This agreement was celebrated by the Socialists and Democrats (S&D) group in the European Parliament, marking a significant step towards a more cohesive European political environment.
The recent updates were finalized through negotiations between the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union and build upon the 2021 proposal by the European Commission. Notably, the new framework clarifies the rules surrounding indirect funding and introduces a new category for 'associated members or organizations.' This helps define participation for parties and organizations from former EU member states and candidate countries more clearly.
Additionally, the regulations impose stricter gender equality requirements. Political parties must now ensure gender parity in their leadership bodies, develop gender equality plans, and publicly share information on the gender balance of their members and candidates for European elections.
Despite the advancements, Gaby Bischoff, the S&D rapporteur on the regulation, expressed concerns that some negotiations fell short, particularly regarding the role of European political parties in national referendums concerning EU matters. She emphasized the critical role of political entities in supporting democracy and the need for stronger party structures to enhance citizen engagement in Europe.