German MEPs propose formal grand coalition to insulate Parliament from far right

Two senior German members of the European Parliament have proposed a formal deal between the center-right European People’s Party (EPP) and the Social Democrats. The initiative aims to shore up the assembly’s fragile political center at a time when relations between the two primary political groups have deteriorated and far-right factions are gaining influence.

Cooperation between the EPP and the Social Democrats has historically formed the bedrock of European Parliament majorities. As mutual trust between the two main groups erodes, legislative majorities have become unpredictable, allowing far-right parties to exert greater leverage over policy outcomes. A structured arrangement would attempt to enforce voting discipline and prevent fringe groups from playing the role of kingmaker.

Majorities in the European Parliament are usually built on ad-hoc, file-by-file compromises rather than formal coalition agreements. However, deteriorating relations between the EPP and Social Democrats have exposed the limits of informal handshake deals. The proposal from German lawmakers reflects growing concern within the Brussels political establishment that without a binding agreement, the center will struggle to maintain control of the legislative agenda.

The proposal faces the hurdle of securing buy-in from the broader EPP and Social Democrat party structures, where national delegations often hold differing views on working closely with ideological rivals. Party leaders will need to decide whether to pursue formal terms or continue navigating legislative business through temporary alliances.