Sign in

iiinova is part of the Atmosphere — an open, public network where you own your identity.

Louis Drounau

@louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu
499 followers 112 following 2.9K posts

Founder of European Democracy Consulting (eudemocracy.eu), European Democracy Consulting Stiftung (edcstiftung.eu, epfo.eu) and EuropeanConstitution.eu 🇪🇺 Sucker for #europeanparties, #eudemocracy and #eureform.

PostsRepliesMedia
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 15/10/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ @politico.eu's @maxgriera.bsky.social got his hands on a 160-page response by the ESN to the facts identified by the APPF casting doubt on several of its member parties' respect for EU values. The party promises reform but opposes the charge.
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ POLITICO Europe's Max Griera got his hands on a 160-page response by the Europe of Sovereign Nations party (ESN) to the facts identified by the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations (APPF) casting doubt on several of its member parties' respect for EU values. The party promises reform but opposes the charge. 
What's next? A committee of experts appointed by the European Commission, European Parliament, and Council of the European Union is working to formulate an opinion (enjoy the 160-page read!), based on which the APPF will make a decision.
100 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 13/10/2026
The EU is currently changing its core privacy law, the GDPR. Members of the European Parliament have made more than 1000 amendments. We have analysed all of them and show which of your representatives are the biggest privacy defenders and who is trying to undermine the current privacy protections.
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 12/10/2026
Back in 2020, @volteuropa.org adopted its "Electoral Reform Policy" explicitly embracing compulsory voting. Anyone aware of other parties/movement in the EU supporting this? (outside of countries that already enact it).
Back in 2020, @volteuropa.org adopted its "Electoral Reform Policy" explicitly embracing compulsory voting.
Anyone aware of other parties/movement in the EU supporting this? (outside of countries that already enact it).
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 09/10/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? Slovenian Resni.ca joined the far-right Europe of Sovereign Nations party. While their post seemed to refer to the ESN Group (not that my is Slovenian is good), the party was added to ESN's list of member parties on its website and it does not actually have MEPs. 1/2
What's new for #europeanparties? Slovenian party Državljansko gibanje Resni.ca joined the far-right Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN) party. While their announcement seemed to refer to the ESN Group instead (but it might just be my bad Slovenian...), the party was added to ESN's list of member parties on its website earlier this week, and Resni.ca does not actually have MEPs.

PS: we note, however, that Resni.ca's website does not (yet) display the logo of ESN Party, which could make ESN liable for sanctions.
100 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 08/10/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? 3/ @politico.eu is reporting that the @eppofficial.bsky.social is holding its Study Days in Taormina, Sicily next week, with @ec.europa.eu President @vonderleyen.ec.europa.eu delivering a speech on Monday. Surprisingly, no mentions of this on the EPP's own website.
What's new for #europeanparties? 3/ @politico.eu is reporting that the @eppofficial.bsky.social is holding its Study Days in Taormina, Sicily next week, with @ec.europa.eu President @vonderleyen.ec.europa.eu delivering a speech on Monday. Surprisingly, no mentions of this on the EPP's website.
120 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 08/10/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? 1/ The various verification procedures, under way or proposed, against three European parties are spurring partisan online conversations. The content of the accusations as well as the legitimacy of the process offer plenty of fodder for opinion pieces.
What's new for #europeanparties? 1/ The various verification procedures, under way or proposed, against three European parties are spurring partisan online conversations. The content of the accusations as well as the legitimacy of the process offer plenty of fodder for opinion pieces. What's new for #europeanparties? 1/ The various verification procedures, under way or proposed, against three European parties are spurring partisan online conversations. The content of the accusations as well as the legitimacy of the process offer plenty of fodder for opinion pieces.
120 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 07/10/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/The @ecrgroup.bsky.social in the European Parliament is relaying Charlie Weimers' quest for signatures to trigger a Parliament vote to open a verification procedure against the @leftallianceeu.bsky.social, giving the quest official backing. The ECR Group has... 1/2
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ The @ecrgroup.bsky.social in the European Parliament is relaying Charlie Weimers' quest for signatures to trigger a Parliament vote to open a verification procedure against the @leftallianceeu.bsky.social, giving the quest official backing.
The ECR Group has 84 MEPs -- 96 short of the 180 MEPs from three groups needed to trigger the vote. Assuming *very* strict group cohesion (which is not easy), the quorum could be reached with support from the Patriots for Europe (85 MEPs) and ESN Group (27 MEPs), itself already supporting a verification procedure against the @europeangreens.eu.
122 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 06/10/2026
𝗧𝗵𝗲 Rhine Group 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 "𝘄𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮 𝗺𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗹𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱'𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱-𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁." 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗳 𝘄𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱'𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱-𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘆.* Beyond usually identified issues of security or migration, one of the main drivers of Euroscepticism — ... 1/10
𝗧𝗵𝗲 Rhine Group 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 "𝘄𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮 𝗺𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗹𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱'𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱-𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁." 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗳 𝘄𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱'𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱-𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘆.*

Beyond usually identified issues of security or migration, one of the main drivers of Euroscepticism — and of the far right in general — is citizens' feeling of democratic dispossession — a sense that they are "losing control" of their institutions and of their country. The recent regional elections in Germany confirmed citizens' growing support for parties that oppose the EU and further harmonisation. 

This feeling of dispossession has been exacerbated by the growing number of decisions taken at European level, either by European institutions or by member states themselves — a development entirely justified by the intensification of geopolitical conflicts and tensions.

However, this expanded role of European-level decision-making has not been accompanied by a corresponding increase in citizens' knowledge of and involvement in European politics — politics remains primarily a national affair, with national leaders and parties at the helm.

As a result, citizens increasingly see decisions being made by institutions and leaders they do not know, which breeds frustration, anger, and resentment. This same feeling already led to Brexit, and should not be overlooked. 

The Rhine Group's call for more Europe-wide action must be accompanied by a clear political pillar highlighting the path for more Europe-level democracy, or they will breed additional popular rejection for the European project. 

The solution to this problem is nothing new: we must strengthen the EU’s representative democracy. This idea is fully in line with the principle of subsidiarity: decisions must be made at the most appropriate level, and democracy must be guaranteed at all levels. B…
101 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 02/10/2026
"I am weak at home so I must be tough at European level to get a win" is the same public interest-destroying mantra that has plagued Europe for decades -- and one of the strongest arguments to get rid of consensus/unanimity and eventually abolish the Council. 1/2
"I am weak at home so I must be tough at European level to get a win" is the same public interest-destroying mantra that has plagued Europe for decades -- and one of the strongest arguments to get rid of consensus/unanimity and eventually abolish the Council. We need European lawmakers representing citizens and members states, not national leaders using the EU for national calculations.
100 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 01/10/2026
Also, a reminder: "the Commission shall consist of a number of members, including its President and the High Representative [...], corresponding to two thirds of the number of Member States" (Art. 17.5). So, yeah, let's bring in more commissioners! 2/2
Also, a reminder: "the Commission shall consist of a number of members, including its President and the High Representative [...], corresponding to two thirds of the number of Member States" (Art. 17.5). So, yeah, let's bring in more commissioners!
030 3
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 01/10/2026
And exactly what good should it do to candidate countries to have a commissioner when "the members of the Commission shall neither seek nor take instructions from any Government" (TEU, Art. 17.3) and, therefore, be independent of their country? 1/2 Via @euractiv.com, @eddywax.bsky.social
And exactly what good should it do to candidate countries to have a commissioner when "the members of the Commission shall neither seek nor take instructions from any Government" (TEU, Art. 17.3) and, therefore, be independent of their country?
1/2
Via @euractiv.com, @eddywax.bsky.social
152 5
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 30/09/2026
As anticipated in a post for the @edcstiftung.eu back in May, the same people who rail against bureaucrats and experts will also complain of political affiliations. No real surprise there. The fact is that the Regulation goes to great lengths to ensure that the verification procedure is fair.. 1/8
As anticipated in a post for the @edcstiftung.eu back in May, the same people who rail against bureaucrats and experts will also complain of political affiliations. No real surprise there.

The fact is that the Regulation goes to great lengths to ensure that the verification procedure is fair, including via a mixed expert-political process and safeguards and vetoes along the way. 

Speaking of which: while POLITICO Europe's article mentions that employees of #europeanparties and foundations cannot sit on the Committee, the Regulation actually talks about "current or former employees". So no cooling off period for institutions, but also an infinite cooling off period for European parties and foundations.

Also note that a decision to deregister ESN Party -- if actually adopted by the APPF AND not vetoed by Parliament or the Council AND not overturned by the Court of Justice of the European Union -- would also 1/ deregister its affiliated foundation (Sovereignty Foundation), and 2/ mechanically mean more European public funding for the remaining parties and foundations (which is something that really should not happen, as deregistering a political party should not lead to direct benefits to others).

Finally, Gerardo Fortuna, while the mentions of an "obscure committee" and "obscure agency" are surely good for the drama, please bear in mind that, as one of the EU's most listened-to voices, Politico could very easily help by reporting a bit more often on European parties and the APPF, instead of on political groups. Feel free to follow our "what's new for #europeanparties?" posts here and on BlueSky!

For more on the topic, make sure to check our relevant posts:
- https://edcstiftung.eu/posts/2026/compliance-eu-values-esn
- https://edcstiftung.eu/posts/2026/committee-independent-eminent-personsAs anticipated in a post for the @edcstiftung.eu back in May, the same people who rail against bureaucrats and experts will also complain of political affiliations. No real surprise there.

The fact is that the Regulation goes to great lengths to ensure that the verification procedure is fair, including via a mixed expert-political process and safeguards and vetoes along the way. 

Speaking of which: while POLITICO Europe's article mentions that employees of #europeanparties and foundations cannot sit on the Committee, the Regulation actually talks about "current or former employees". So no cooling off period for institutions, but also an infinite cooling off period for European parties and foundations.

Also note that a decision to deregister ESN Party -- if actually adopted by the APPF AND not vetoed by Parliament or the Council AND not overturned by the Court of Justice of the European Union -- would also 1/ deregister its affiliated foundation (Sovereignty Foundation), and 2/ mechanically mean more European public funding for the remaining parties and foundations (which is something that really should not happen, as deregistering a political party should not lead to direct benefits to others).

Finally, Gerardo Fortuna, while the mentions of an "obscure committee" and "obscure agency" are surely good for the drama, please bear in mind that, as one of the EU's most listened-to voices, Politico could very easily help by reporting a bit more often on European parties and the APPF, instead of on political groups. Feel free to follow our "what's new for #europeanparties?" posts here and on BlueSky!

For more on the topic, make sure to check our relevant posts:
- https://edcstiftung.eu/posts/2026/compliance-eu-values-esn
- https://edcstiftung.eu/posts/2026/committee-independent-eminent-persons
111 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 29/09/2026
❌ "Consensus strengthens political ownership and democratic legitimacy" reads a @ec.europa.eu document seen by @euractiv.com. ❔ When decision-makers give in to political blackmail because a decision is held up by someone for something unrelated, is that democracy? When decisions put to a vote... 1/2
❌ "Consensus strengthens political ownership and democratic legitimacy" reads a European Commission document seen by Euractiv.

❔ When decision-makers give in to political blackmail because a decision is held up by one person in exchange for something unrelated, is that democracy? When decisions put to a vote are watered down beforehand because it is clear that a minority will veto stronger action, is that democracy?

✅ No, consensus and unanimity do NOT strengthen democratic legitimacy. Democratic legitimacy comes from support from the majority*, not from everyone.

*with due respect for the protection of minorities.
153 5
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 28/09/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? 3/ Finally, the @eppofficial.bsky.social is meeting in Toulouse for two days to discuss political topics, incl. migration policies. The event will also see the launch of the "Win2029" task force aimed at preparing the party's platform for the next European elections.
What's new for #europeanparties? 3/ Finally, the European People's Party is meeting in Toulouse for two days to discuss political topics, such as its migration policies. The event will also see the launch of the EPP's "Win2029" task force aimed at preparing the party's platform for the next European elections.What's new for #europeanparties? 3/ Finally, the European People's Party is meeting in Toulouse for two days to discuss political topics, such as its migration policies. The event will also see the launch of the EPP's "Win2029" task force aimed at preparing the party's platform for the next European elections.
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 28/09/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ @politico.eu reports that the @eppofficial.bsky.social will be opening its individual membership for €20. Until now, individual membership was reserved for members of national member parties. Individual membership currently does not grant voting rights,... 1/3
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ POLITICO Europe reports that the European People's Party will be opening its individual membership for €20. Until now, individual membership was reserved for members of national member parties. Individual membership currently does not grant voting rights, and it is unclear whether this will change.
📉 Individual membership is rarely a thing for #europeanparties. For instance, the EPP had only 23 individual members by the end of 2025, despite having 184 MEPs and received over 38 million votes in the 2024 European elections. 
✅ Done well, individual membership could help diversify the private funding of European parties and strengthen ties with European citizens, but this would require giving members something for their money, such as voting rights in party decisions.What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ POLITICO Europe reports that the European People's Party will be opening its individual membership for €20. Until now, individual membership was reserved for members of national member parties. Individual membership currently does not grant voting rights, and it is unclear whether this will change.
📉 Individual membership is rarely a thing for #europeanparties. For instance, the EPP had only 23 individual members by the end of 2025, despite having 184 MEPs and received over 38 million votes in the 2024 European elections. 
✅ Done well, individual membership could help diversify the private funding of European parties and strengthen ties with European citizens, but this would require giving members something for their money, such as voting rights in party decisions.What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ POLITICO Europe reports that the European People's Party will be opening its individual membership for €20. Until now, individual membership was reserved for members of national member parties. Individual membership currently does not grant voting rights, and it is unclear whether this will change.
📉 Individual membership is rarely a thing for #europeanparties. For instance, the EPP had only 23 individual members by the end of 2025, despite having 184 MEPs and received over 38 million votes in the 2024 European elections. 
✅ Done well, individual membership could help diversify the private funding of European parties and strengthen ties with European citizens, but this would require giving members something for their money, such as voting rights in party decisions.
111 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 28/09/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? Three things today! 1/ Many outlets reported on @progressiefned.bsky.social members' decision to join the @pes.eu over the @europeangreens.eu (65% in favour), and pointed out the consequences on the PES' European public funding (e.g. @politico.eu article below). 1/4
What's new for #europeanparties? Three things on the agenda today! 1/ Many outlets reported on Progressief Nederland members' decision to join the Party of European Socialists (PES) over the European Greens (65% in favour), and pointed out the consequences on the PES' European public funding (for instance, see POLITICO Europe article below). 

⚠️ What they failed to highlight is that this vote does not grant automatic PES membership. According to the party's statutes, applications are considered on a case-by-case basis by the Presidency and decided by the Congress; in between congresses, the Presidency may grant "provisional membership". 

⏩ The reason this matters is because applications for European public funding are due by 30 September (in 2 days), and it is unclear whether this provisional membership will be counted as the required "full membership". 

💶 With each MEP bringing in over €62k in public funding in 2026, PRO's 8 MEPs could be worth half a million euros.

❌ Unfortunately, since applications for funding and decisions are not made public, we won't know until early 2027 at least. #transparency What's new for #europeanparties? Three things on the agenda today! 1/ Many outlets reported on Progressief Nederland members' decision to join the Party of European Socialists (PES) over the European Greens (65% in favour), and pointed out the consequences on the PES' European public funding (for instance, see POLITICO Europe article below). 

⚠️ What they failed to highlight is that this vote does not grant automatic PES membership. According to the party's statutes, applications are considered on a case-by-case basis by the Presidency and decided by the Congress; in between congresses, the Presidency may grant "provisional membership". 

⏩ The reason this matters is because applications for European public funding are due by 30 September (in 2 days), and it is unclear whether this provisional membership will be counted as the required "full membership". 

💶 With each MEP bringing in over €62k in public funding in 2026, PRO's 8 MEPs could be worth half a million euros.

❌ Unfortunately, since applications for funding and decisions are not made public, we won't know until early 2027 at least. #transparency
101 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 21/09/2026
A few days apart, French presidential hopeful Gabriel Attal and former ECB president Jean-Claude Trichet called for the United States of Europe and a federal Europe. While the devil is in the fine prints, it is welcome to see more high-profile figures embrace this political necessity. 🇪🇺 #ToFedEU
A few days apart, French presidential hopeful Gabriel Attal and former president of the European Central Bank Jean-Claude Trichet called, respectively, for the United States of Europe and for a federal Europe. While the devil is in the fine prints, it is welcome to see more high-profile figures embrace this political necessity. 🇪🇺

👍 Fun fact: in my own submission to the #Europe2050 project earlier this year, I already called for a federal Europe and, specifically, to bring down the national democracy

"glass ceiling", an expression also used by Trichet. Too bad he did not mention #europeanparties as the first step to reach this goal.

#ToFedEUA few days apart, French presidential hopeful Gabriel Attal and former president of the European Central Bank Jean-Claude Trichet called, respectively, for the United States of Europe and for a federal Europe. While the devil is in the fine prints, it is welcome to see more high-profile figures embrace this political necessity. 🇪🇺

👍 Fun fact: in my own submission to the #Europe2050 project earlier this year, I already called for a federal Europe and, specifically, to bring down the national democracy

"glass ceiling", an expression also used by Trichet. Too bad he did not mention #europeanparties as the first step to reach this goal.

#ToFedEU
231 3
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 18/09/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? Not much, just the official nomination of Luca Pietro Vanoni as the second expert of the @europarl.europa.eu on the APPF's Committee of Independent Eminent Persons. Following the recent nomination of the.. 1/2 For more on this process 👉 edcstiftung.eu/post/complia...
What's new for #europeanparties? Not much surprise, just the official confirmation of the nomination of Luca Pietro Vanoni as the second expert of the European Parliament on the APPF's Committee of Independent Eminent Persons. Following the recent nomination of the European Commission's two experts, this means that the Committee is now complete. It is unclear whether the APPF has already asked the Committee to provide an opinion on the ESN Party verification procedure, or whether it waited for the incoming nominations. Once called, the Committee has two months to provide its opinion, which will be made public.

For more on this process 👉 https://edcstiftung.eu/post/compliance-eu-values-esn
100 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 17/09/2026
Update with final vote count.
Update with final vote count.Update with final vote count.
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 16/09/2026
Looking forward to testing out my prediction! #SOTEU watch party organised by the @oegfe.bsky.social in Vienna.
Looking forward to testing out my prediction! #SOTEU watch party organised by the @oegfe.bsky.social in Vienna.
010 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 16/09/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? With over 95% of constituencies having reported, here are the results of this weekend's election in Sweden from the perspective of European political parties (no, not political groups of the European Parliament).
What's new for #europeanparties? With over 95% of constituencies having reported, here are the results of this weekend's election in Sweden from the perspective of European political parties (no, not political groups of the European Parliament).
100 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 14/09/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? @vonderleyen.ec.europa.eu officially appointed former Commission SG Alexander Italianer and former Commission DG for Education, Youth, Sport & Culture Martine REICHERTS as its the @ec.europa.eu's experts on the APPF's Committee.. 1/4 eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-conten...
What's new for #europeanparties? 

Ursula von der Leyen officially appointed former Commission SG Alexander Italianer and former Commission DG for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture Martine REICHERTS as its the European Commission's experts on the APPF's Committee for Independent Eminent Persons, which will be tasked with assessing whether members of ESN Party respected EU values.

For context, that appointment should have taken place by January 2025 -- European Democracy Consulting Stiftung alerted the cabinet of Commissioner Michael McGrath in January of this year, and the nomination process took eight months.

For its part, the European Parliament is still in the process of officially appointing a successor to one of its experts who passed away over the summer; earlier this month, the EP's AFCO Committee recommended Luca Pietro Vanoni, professor at the University of Milan specialising in U.S. constitutional law and religion.

https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32026D2043&qid=1784277293936
220 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 10/09/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? Ahead of Sweden's election, @aldeparty.bsky.social finds itself campaigning for both Centerpartiet and @partietliberalerna.bsky.social, that oppose each other at the national level. This, and the absence of harmonisation, makes European parties invisible to voters.
What's new for #europeanparties? With Sweden's general election coming up, ALDE Party finds itself campaigning for two national parties, Centerpartiet and Liberalerna, that oppose each other at the national level. This, and the absence of harmonisation in name, branding, and policies, contributes to making European parties irrelevant and invisible to voters.What's new for #europeanparties? With Sweden's general election coming up, ALDE Party finds itself campaigning for two national parties, Centerpartiet and Liberalerna, that oppose each other at the national level. This, and the absence of harmonisation in name, branding, and policies, contributes to making European parties irrelevant and invisible to voters.
010 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 01/09/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? A new Director for the APPF! As of today, Philippe Musquar replaces Pascal Schonard as the head of the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations. Here is wishing him all the best for this great adventure. 1/8
What's new for #europeanparties? A new Director for the APPF! As of today, Philippe Musquar replaces Pascal Schonard as the head of the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations. Here is wishing him all the best for this great adventure.

The job comes with a unique complexity. On the one hand, the Treaty on European Union sets an ambitious goal for European parties, which should "contribute to forming European political awareness and to expressing the will of citizens of the Union." On the other, Regulation 2025/2445 (the legal framework for European parties and foundations) severely restricts what European parties can do, and only provides limited tools to achieve parties' treaty-mandated role.

Think of it as a Formula 1 Team Principal tasked with building the best racing car to win the championship, and then told they have to use the engine of a 2CV. A good Team Principal will work hard to reconcile those two imperatives, and make the most of a hard situation. But the right Team Principal will work even harder to point out the discrepancy, have it resolved, and thus win the championship.

The current Regulation is what's in place and a slight improvement on its predecessor; but it is also far from adequate to achieve a party system that actively engages and represents citizens at the European level in a true European representative democracy, which is what the TEU aims for. And while the job description of the Director is limited to the role ascribed to the APPF -- to register, control and impose sanctions in line with the Regulation --, the Director is also uniquely positioned to actively drive the improvement of the Regulation by advising European institutions based on best practices.

This is the real challenge behind the position of Director of the APPF: mastering the legal limits within which to operate, finding sources of flexibility therein, while defining a vision of what the European party system should be and what suit…
152 5
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 27/08/2026
You know what will NOT feature in #SOTEU? #europeanparties! Over the past 6 years, each emphasises democracy, but not once mention European parties or even political parties. As if democracy could exist without parties to represent citizens. @vonderleyen.ec.europa.eu, @michaelmcgratheu.bsky.social
You know what will NOT feature in this year's State of the European Union address? European parties! Looking at SOTEU over the past six years, they all repeatedly emphasise democracy, but not once mention European parties, or even political parties. As if democracy could exist without parties to represent citizens. 



Ursula von der Leyen, Michael McGrath

Via Gerardo Fortuna, POLITICO Europe

#europeanparties #SOTEU #SOTEU2026
020 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 07/08/2026
3 weeks since latest message. 5 weeks since "the decision is being finalised". 5 months since the request was submitted. All for a 15 working day process. European Democracy Consulting Stiftung's work requires infinite patience. @eudemocracy.eu #transparency
3 weeks since latest message.
5 weeks since "the decision is being finalised".
5 months since the request was submitted.
All for a 15 working day process. 
European Democracy Consulting Stiftung's work requires infinite patience.
@eudemocracy.eu
020 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 05/08/2026
Nothing says "reliable news outlet" better than posting news about Orban's government as it "gears up for European Parliament elections due on May 26" by "attacking European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker". Watch out, Frans Timmermans! 🇪🇺🙃
Nothing says "reliable news outlet" better than posting news about Orban's government as it "gears up for European Parliament elections due on May 26" by "attacking European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker". Watch out, Frans Timmermans! 🇪🇺🙃
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 05/08/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ Sources say that ESN Party received the APPF's official letter two weeks ago, meaning it took the APPF two full weeks after the EP's vote. For the record, the APPF is expected to proceed "without undue delay"; ESN then has four weeks to submit this information.
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ Sources say that ESN Party received the APPF's official letter (inviting it to provide comments and information on remedial measures as part of the ongoing verification procedure) two weeks ago, meaning it took the APPF two full weeks to send the letter following the European Parliament's vote to open the procedure. For the record, the APPF is expected to proceed "without undue delay"; ESN then has four weeks to submit this information.
110 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 04/08/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? In a tragic twist, the months-late appointment of the Commission's two experts on the APPF's Committee of Independent Eminent Persons coincided with the passing of one of Parliament's experts, Spanish think tank leader Pablo Vázquez. 1/3
What's new for #europeanparties? In a tragic twist, the months-late appointment of the Commission's two experts on the APPF's Committee of Independent Eminent Persons coincided with the passing of one of Parliament's experts, Spanish think tank leader Pablo Vázquez.
Given the close proximity of the first-ever meeting of this Committee to discuss a possible deregistration for ESN Party, it is anyone's guess whether Parliament will manage a last-minute nomination during its summer recess. I already approached several MEPs yesterday after discovering the news while researching the Committee.
Beyond the institutions questions, my heart goes out to Vázquez's family and friends for their loss.
111 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 03/08/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? Habemus papam! 🎉 @euractiv.com's @eddywax.bsky.social, who is on a roll for EU parties, reports that the @ec.europa.eu looks to appoint former Com. SG Italianer and former Commissioner Reicherts as experts on the APPF's Committee of Independent Eminent Persons. 1/10
What's new for #europeanparties? Habemus papam! 🎉 Euractiv's Eddy Wax, who seems on a roll regarding European parties, reports that the European Commission looks to appoint former Com. SG Alexander Italianer and former Commissioner Martine REICHERTS as its experts on the APPF's Committee of Independent Eminent Persons.

This news hits home because, spoiler alert, yours truly was the one informing the Commission of its failure to appoint its experts back in January. Got a nice thank you note for the reminder, although, surprise surprise, my own expression of interest was not retained.

✍️ For reference, each of the three main institutions appoints two experts on the Committee "within six months after the end of the first session of the European Parliament following each election to the European Parliament". And these are non-renewable terms, so former appointees cannot simply continue to sit on the Committee. 

🇪🇺 Since the constitutive session of the Tenth European Parliament was on 16-19 July 2024, the deadline for appointment was 19 January 2025. The European Parliament notified the APPF of its appointments on 22 January, while the Council of the European Union appointed them on 27 May. By contrast, the Commission still hasn't officially appointed its experts as of August 2026.

⁉️ Why does this matter? After all, this committee has never issued an opinion, and has not ever even met. But in December 2025, a new Regulation on European parties entered into force, requesting that European parties' member parties (and no longer just European parties themselves) respect EU values. This provided the legal basis for the APPF to send to the three institutions a report highlighting suspicious behaviour by members of ESN Party, and for Parliament to subsequently request the APPF to open a verification procedure. After the party sends its feedback and remedial measures, the Committee is tasked with providing an opinion to the APPF. It is with that new possibility in mind …
111 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 30/07/2026
Dear @vonderleyen.ec.europa.eu, if you do indeed consider #SOTEU to be of great importance, then please schedule it at prime time in the evening, and not at 10am when citizens are at work. You can't go on and make the same mistake over and over. Via @politico.eu / @gabrielgavin.bsky.social
Dear @vonderleyen.ec.europa.eu, if you do indeed consider #SOTEU to be of great importance, then please schedule it at prime time in the evening, and not at 10am when citizens are at work. You can't go on and make the same mistake over and over.
010 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 29/07/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ @euractiv.com's @eddywax.bsky.social, in his Rapporteur newsletter, concludes his reporting on the nomination of the incoming APPF Director, featuring yours truly.
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ @euractiv.com's @eddywax.bsky.social, in his Rapporteur newsletter, concludes his reporting on the nomination of the incoming APPF Director, featuring yours truly.
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 29/07/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? Two things. 1/ The ECR Party announced the resignation of its president, former Polish PM Mateusz Morawiecki, following its ouster from its national party. @politico.eu reports that VP Carlo Fidanza will cover for him until a new president is appointed, around Sept.
What's new for #europeanparties? Two things. 1/ The ECR Party announced the resignation of its president, former Polish PM Mateusz Morawiecki, following its ouster from its national party. @politico.eu reports that VP Carlo Fidanza will cover for him until a new president is appointed, around Sept. Three MEPs following Morawiecki would remain in the ECR Group in the European Parliament.What's new for #europeanparties? Two things. 1/ The ECR Party announced the resignation of its president, former Polish PM Mateusz Morawiecki, following its ouster from its national party. @politico.eu reports that VP Carlo Fidanza will cover for him until a new president is appointed, around Sept. Three MEPs following Morawiecki would remain in the ECR Group in the European Parliament.
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 27/07/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? 3/ Differing visions on EU reform published, as @europeandemocrats.bsky.social SG @sandrogozi.bsky.social calls for governance reform & abolishing the veto, while ECR Party opposes doing away with unanimity, calls instead for more #transparency. No mention of EUPPs.
What's new for #europeanparties? 3/ Differing visions on EU reform published, as European Democrats SG Sandro Gozi calls for governance reform and abolishing the veto, while ECR Party opposes doing away with unanimity, calling instead for more #transparency. Unfortunately, neither mention the role of European parties for more representative democracy.What's new for #europeanparties? 3/ Differing visions on EU reform published, as European Democrats SG Sandro Gozi calls for governance reform and abolishing the veto, while ECR Party opposes doing away with unanimity, calling instead for more #transparency. Unfortunately, neither mention the role of European parties for more representative democracy.
020 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 27/07/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? 2/ Mateusz Morawiecki, president of the ECR Party, was expelled from his national party alongside dozens of MP and 3 MEPs, leading Carlo Fidanza, Brothers of Italy MEP, to become interim president. 1/2
Should Morawiecki's MEPs not find a political home by end Sept., this should mechanically increase the per-MEP public funding amount that European parties receive.
121 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 24/07/2026
Not that I really considered applying this year, but the opening as #APPF Director was only open for 14 days and not even made available on the APPF's own page -- yes, technically, it's the institutions recruiting the Director, but still. So much for #transparency. eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/C/2026/3...
Not that I really considered applying this year, but the opening as #APPF Director was only open for 14 days and not even made available on the APPF's own page -- yes, technically, it's the institutions recruiting the Director, but still. So much for #transparency.
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/C/2026/3206/oj/eng
010 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 24/07/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? The appointment of Philippe Musquar as Director of the #APPF, announced last week, is now facing approval hurdles, amid reluctance by France, Italy, Germany and Spain over political orientation concerns, according to Euractiv.
What's new for #europeanparties? The appointment of Philippe Musquar as Director of the #APPF, announced last week, is now facing approval hurdles, amid reluctance by France, Italy, Germany and Spain over political orientation concerns, according to Euractiv.
110 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 23/07/2026
🤔 Anyone else under the impression that the #APPF's twitter account was the project of an intern that lost steam once the intern left? 👇 Below the APPF's 123 posts (incl. quote posts & reposts) between Sept. 2022 and July 2026. 1/11
🤔 Anyone else under the impression that the #APPF's twitter account was the project of an intern that lost steam once the intern left?

👇 Below the APPF's 123 posts (incl. quote posts & reposts) between Sept. 2022 and July 2026.


This somewhat silly chart links to a broader issue: European citizens are, by and large, oblivious to the programmes, names, and even existence of their common #europeanparties. 


How do we know this? That's the tricky part. Empirical evidence mostly comes from the blank stare on people's faces when you tell about European political parties (no, not political groups in the Parliament). This fact is also stated time and again in the literature on European parties.


Unfortunately, actual surveys are difficult to come by, if not entirely inexistent. So we must rely instead on indirect and less precise hints:

- European parties are hardly mentioned by national parties during European elections;

- European parties' logos are hardly visible on national parties' websites, as shown by our Logos project in 2021, despite this being a requirement under EU law;

- political groups remain, by far, the frame of reference for EU politics in the media and for electoral analysis; and

- individual membership of European parties remains depressingly low -- with the EPP and PES, the EU's two largest parties, having respectively 23 and 6 individual members by end 2025 (for over 450m citizens).


For several years, we have tried to convince the European Commission and European Parliament to include questions assessing citizens' "awareness and recall" of European parties in their respective Eurobarometers. The idea being to generate a periodic snapshot of citizens' familiarity, not with a party in particular, but with European parties in general. Our proposal was met with genuine interest, and never acted upon.


We also called on European institutions to endow the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations (the European p…
112 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 17/07/2026
“We can to deliver a pragmatic revision [of the ETS] that [...] gives member states and industries a strong helping hand.” Polish Secretary of State Krzysztof Bolesta told @politico.eu.
“We can to deliver a pragmatic revision [of the ETS] that [...] gives member states and industries a strong helping hand.” Polish Secretary of State Krzysztof Bolesta told @politico.eu.
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 14/07/2026
Some will complain about loss of expertise and experience, but, with a pool of 450 million citizens, there is no one who cannot be replaced when they turn 70+ or have completed several terms. It is up to parties to hire and train younger politicians well ahead of time 👉 europeanconstitution.eu
Some will complain about loss of expertise and experience, but, with a pool of 450 million citizens, there is no one who cannot be replaced when they turn 70+ or have completed several terms. It is up to parties to hire and train younger politicians well ahead of time 👉 europeanconstitution.eu
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 14/07/2026
On Monday, #Hungary adopted a constitutional amendment imposing a mandatory retirement age of 70 on constitutional court judges. I have long thought that similar measures -- retirement age, maximum eligibility age, and term limits -- ought to be imposed on legislatures, esp. the @europarl.europa.eu
On Monday, #Hungary adopted a constitutional amendment imposing a mandatory retirement age of 70 on constitutional court judges.
I have long thought that similar measures -- retirement age, maximum eligibility age, and term limits -- ought to be imposed on legislatures, esp. the @europarl.europa.eu
100 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 10/07/2026
As reported by @politico.eu's @marieccles.bsky.social, @aldeparty.bsky.social's congress was a chance for big corporate donors to cozy up to MEPs in private meetings, raising again the ethical question of corporate party donations. 👉 the question is: who do we want to see fund our common parties?
As reported by @politico.eu's @marieccles.bsky.social, @aldeparty.bsky.social's congress was a chance for big corporate donors to cozy up to MEPs in private meetings, raising once again the ethical question of corporate donations to political parties. This, however, will come as no surprise to observers of Donation.watch, which clearly shows telecom, IT, and pharmaceutical companies as the liberal party's largest donors -- as well as largest donors to all #europeanparties.

👉 the question is: who do we want to see fund our common political parties?As reported by @politico.eu's @marieccles.bsky.social, @aldeparty.bsky.social's congress was a chance for big corporate donors to cozy up to MEPs in private meetings, raising once again the ethical question of corporate donations to political parties. This, however, will come as no surprise to observers of Donation.watch, which clearly shows telecom, IT, and pharmaceutical companies as the liberal party's largest donors -- as well as largest donors to all #europeanparties.

👉 the question is: who do we want to see fund our common political parties?As reported by @politico.eu's @marieccles.bsky.social, @aldeparty.bsky.social's congress was a chance for big corporate donors to cozy up to MEPs in private meetings, raising once again the ethical question of corporate donations to political parties. This, however, will come as no surprise to observers of Donation.watch, which clearly shows telecom, IT, and pharmaceutical companies as the liberal party's largest donors -- as well as largest donors to all #europeanparties.

👉 the question is: who do we want to see fund our common political parties?As reported by @politico.eu's @marieccles.bsky.social, @aldeparty.bsky.social's congress was a chance for big corporate donors to cozy up to MEPs in private meetings, raising once again the ethical question of corporate donations to political parties. This, however, will come as no surprise to observers of Donation.watch, which clearly shows telecom, IT, and pharmaceutical companies as the liberal party's largest donors -- as well as largest donors to all #europeanparties.

👉 the question is: who do we want to see fund our common political parties?
121 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 09/07/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? A welcome chart, made by the APPF, to help explain the sanctions process. Would this deserve more than a mere hyperlink? Yes. Would it have been clearer to separate regular sanctions from compliance with EU values, as the Regulation does?.. 1/2
What's new for #europeanparties? A welcome chart, made by the APPF, to help explain the sanctions process. Would this deserve more than a mere hyperlink? Yes. Would it have been clearer to separate regular sanctions from compliance with EU values, as the Regulation does? Certainly. Would it have been nice for the APPF to communicate on its fact-finding report and on the EP's decision on social media? Definitely. But this is welcome nonetheless!

https://www.appf.europa.eu/cmsdata/308901/Sanction%20procedure%20flowchart.pdf
110 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 08/07/2026
Would it have been soooo hard to let the US be in the World Cup just a little bit longer?!
Would it have been soooo hard to let the US be in the World Cup just a little bit longer?!
010 1
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 08/07/2026
What's new for #europeanparties? Not much. You'd think the opening of the first verification procedure against an EU party --framed as "ban the AfD" or "silencing opposition to immigration"-- would trigger strong reactions. Barely a press release by ESN Group, unavailable on their website. So quiet.
What's new for #europeanparties? Surprisingly, not much. You'd think the opening of the first-ever verification procedure against a European political party -- framed online as "ban the AfD" or "silencing opposition to mass immigration" -- would trigger some strong reactions. Barely a press release by ESN Group, unavailable on their website. Also next to nothing in the EU morning press. Such a quiet morning.What's new for #europeanparties? Surprisingly, not much. You'd think the opening of the first-ever verification procedure against a European political party -- framed online as "ban the AfD" or "silencing opposition to mass immigration" -- would trigger some strong reactions. Barely a press release by ESN Group, unavailable on their website. Also next to nothing in the EU morning press. Such a quiet morning.What's new for #europeanparties? Surprisingly, not much. You'd think the opening of the first-ever verification procedure against a European political party -- framed online as "ban the AfD" or "silencing opposition to mass immigration" -- would trigger some strong reactions. Barely a press release by ESN Group, unavailable on their website. Also next to nothing in the EU morning press. Such a quiet morning.What's new for #europeanparties? Surprisingly, not much. You'd think the opening of the first-ever verification procedure against a European political party -- framed online as "ban the AfD" or "silencing opposition to mass immigration" -- would trigger some strong reactions. Barely a press release by ESN Group, unavailable on their website. Also next to nothing in the EU morning press. Such a quiet morning.
022 2
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 07/07/2026
🎉 The European Parliament decided to ask the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations (APPF) to open an investigation on whether ESN Party properly ensured that its member parties complied with EU values. As the first such vote, this is an important step for.. 1/5
🎉 The European Parliament decided to ask the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations (APPF) to open an investigation on whether ESN Party properly ensured that its member parties complied with EU values. As the first such vote, this is an important step for the enforceability of this verification process and a confirmation that facts found by the APPF can legitimately give rise to a formal investigation.
❔ *What's next?* The APPF will now "inform [ESN] without undue delay, invite it to submit its observations and give it the opportunity to introduce measures to remedy the situation within one month", after which the APPF will "submit the observations made by [ESN] and, where applicable, the [corrective measures taken] to the committee of independent eminent persons" for its opinion to be given within two months. Then the APPF will decide whether to de-register ESN, a decision the Parliament and Council can veto.
⚠️ The European Commission still hasn't appointed its members on the committee of independent eminent persons.
❔ Not that this changes anything, but it remains to be seen whether the Commission and/or Council will likewise ask the APPF to open the verification procedure, or whether their decision-making process will stop.
👉 For more details: https://edcstiftung.eu/post/compliance-eu-values-esn
2156 15
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 06/07/2026
⚠️ Tomorrow, the European Parliament will vote on whether or not to request the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations (APPF) to open a verification procedure against Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN). 1/9 Letter sent by APPF to the Council, via @politico.eu 👇
⚠️ Tomorrow, the European Parliament will vote on whether or not to request the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations (APPF) to open a verification procedure against Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN Party).

Letter sent by APPF to the Council, via @politico.eu 👇⚠️ Tomorrow, the European Parliament will vote on whether or not to request the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations (APPF) to open a verification procedure against Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN Party).

Letter sent by APPF to the Council, via @politico.eu 👇
263 6
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 01/07/2026
Clarification: the raids undertaken by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office are in relation to the former Identity and Democracy (ID) *group*, not the European party. You might be confused because ID Party also got sanctioned, for misleading citizens on its website. #europeanparties
Clarification: the raids undertaken by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office are in relation to the former Identity and Democracy (ID) *group*, not the European party. You might be confused because ID Party also got sanctioned, for misleading citizens on its website.
#europeanparties
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 18/06/2026
Exactly my argument to support compulsory voting. Make it easy, make it fun, make it postal/proxy/online, and make all the awareness-raising campaigns you want, but make it compulsory. It is and remains a citizen's duty.
Exactly my argument to support compulsory voting. Make it easy, make it fun, make it postal/proxy/online, and make all the awareness-raising campaigns you want, but make it compulsory. It is and remains a citizen's duty.
000 0
Louis Drounau @louisdrounau.eudemocracy.eu · 18/06/2026
Yesterday, the @europarl.europa.eu adopted its 2026 report on the implementation of the EU law on #europeanparties and foundations! Unsurprisingly, the same people who complain about lack of democracy also chose not to support a text which makes (small) steps for democracy.
Yesterday, the @europarl.europa.eu adopted its 2026 report on the implementation of the EU law on #europeanparties and foundations! Unsurprisingly, the same people who complain about lack of democracy also chose not to support a text which makes (small) steps for democracy.Yesterday, the @europarl.europa.eu adopted its 2026 report on the implementation of the EU law on #europeanparties and foundations! Unsurprisingly, the same people who complain about lack of democracy also chose not to support a text which makes (small) steps for democracy.
110 1