On 10 June 2026, the European Parliament published amendments to the report on the application of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2025/2445 on European political parties and foundations. The amendments, tabled exclusively by the Patriots for Europe (PfE) group, fundamentally challenge the report's core premises by rejecting the notion of a "European public sphere" and calling for curbs on EU funding and a politically neutral application of Article 2 TEU values.
The amendments represent a sharp divergence from the original draft, which was likely supported by a broader pro-European coalition (EPP, S&D, Renew, Greens/EFA). The PfE group positions itself in opposition to deeper EU integration by redefining legitimacy, opposing increased funding, and demanding equal scrutiny for NGOs.
- Amendment 9 replaces the concept of a "European public sphere" with a declaration that "democratic legitimacy in Europe stems from its nations." - Amendment 12 redefines the role of political foundations, stating they should not promote "particular institutional, ideological or integrationist objectives" but should respect the "diversity of political traditions in the Member States." - Amendment 14 firmly rejects any increase in overall funding for foundations, asserting that national political parties are the "true vehicle for the expression of the popular will." - Amendment 10 introduces concern that NGOs receiving EU funds are not subject to "significantly stricter transparency, reporting, audit and control requirements," arguing this asymmetry undermines confidence in the impartiality of EU funding rules. - Amendment 11 insists that Article 2 TEU principles must be applied in a "politically neutral, objective and non-discriminatory manner," a direct critique of what PfE argues is the current system's bias against Eurosceptic parties. - Amendment 13 calls for regulatory simplification to ensure requirements are "strictly proportionate to their objectives, particularly for smaller organisations."
- European political parties and foundations: The amendments would reduce EU funding and restrict their role in promoting EU integration, potentially limiting their activities and influence. - National governments and parliaments: The emphasis on national sovereignty and subsidiarity could shift political weight back to member states, reinforcing their role in democratic legitimacy. - EU institutions (Commission, Parliament): The amendments challenge the current enforcement of Article 2 TEU values, potentially weakening the EU's ability to condition funding on respect for fundamental values. - NGOs receiving EU funds: Increased scrutiny and transparency requirements could impose additional administrative burdens and reduce their access to EU funding.
The amendments will be debated in the European Parliament's plenary session, with a vote expected to follow. The Council's position on the regulation remains to be seen, but the PfE group's amendments signal a potential rift in the Parliament's consensus on EU political party funding.
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