EPP Tightens Grip: Von der Leyen & Weber’s Push for EU Policy Control
Navigating a Shifting Landscape: The EPP’s Tightening Grip on EU Policy
The European People’s Party (EPP) is increasingly centralizing control over policy within the European Union, a trend observed since the formation of the new European Commission in November 2024. This consolidation comes as Ursula von der Leyen faces ongoing scrutiny, having survived four no-confidence votes since the start of her second term on December 1, 2024.
The Rollback of Green Rules and Internal Divisions
A key indicator of this shift is the recent rollback of EU green rules, including cuts to corporate sustainability and deforestation legislation. This move, secured in a deal finalized in December 2025, represents a significant win for von der Leyen and the EPP, but has simultaneously exposed fractures within the broader center-right coalition. Traditional allies from the center-left and liberal center have distanced themselves from policies aligned with the far-right.
The changes to sustainability legislation were negotiated by representatives from the European Parliament, the EU Council, and the Commission.
Manfred Weber’s Strategy for Central Control
Manfred Weber, chair of the EPP and head of its European Parliament faction, is actively working to tighten decision-making processes across the EU institutions – the Commission, the Parliament, and the Council. His strategy involves increasing the frequency of meetings and coordination between center-right leaders and senior EU officials. This includes regular pre-summit gatherings and annual meetings of national chiefs, with the most recent taking place in Zagreb.
According to EU officials, increased coordination is seen as crucial to preventing policy derailments. One official noted that “The more coordination we can have between various groups of people, the better…Because then you have the relationships and the format to stop the wheels coming off completely.”
EPP Dominance in Key Positions
The EPP currently holds significant influence within the EU’s leadership structure. Ursula von der Leyen leads the European Commission, and Roberta Metsola serves as President of the European Parliament. This strong representation provides the EPP with considerable leverage in shaping the EU’s agenda.
Intense Diplomatic Activity and Future Outlook
The coming weeks are marked by a period of intense EU diplomacy, including meetings of defense ministers, a summit of EU leaders, and the Munich Security Conference. These events will provide further opportunities for the EPP to solidify its position and coordinate policy initiatives.
The EPP’s strengthened position follows a shift to the right within the European Parliament in November 2025, facilitated by the return of a German chancellor to the EPP ranks.
EU Enlargement on the Horizon
Looking ahead to the remainder of 2025, and into 2026, the potential for EU enlargement is a significant factor. Discussions surrounding the entry of new member states could reshape the political dynamics within the Union.
FAQ
Q: What is the EPP?
A: The European People’s Party is a center-right political party that is the largest political party in the European Parliament.
Q: What are the key changes to EU green rules?
A: The changes include cuts to corporate sustainability and deforestation legislation, finalized in December 2025.
Q: Who is Manfred Weber?
A: Manfred Weber is the chair of the EPP and head of its European Parliament faction.
Q: When did Ursula von der Leyen begin her second term?
A: Ursula von der Leyen began her second term on December 1, 2024.
Q: What is the significance of EU enlargement?
A: 2025 could be a defining year for the potential entry of new member states into the European Union.
Did you know? The European Parliament holds five main functions, including legislative and scrutiny prerogatives.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about EU policy changes by following updates from the European Commission and the European Parliament.
Want to learn more about the evolving political landscape in Europe? Explore our other articles on EU policy and governance.