MEPs Champion Electoral Reform

In a significant push toward modifying the European Electoral Act, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have called for a revitalization of momentum to address the act’s stalled progress and enhance the democratic framework of European elections. This call to action was emphasized during a recent vote by the Committee on Constitutional Affairs, which highlighted the need for a more unified and democratic electoral process across member states.

The MEPs’ renewed initiative aims to address the limitations and incomplete implementations that have marred the effectiveness of the 2018 Electoral Act reform. Notably, the reform has not been fully ratified by all member states, with Spain yet to endorse it, causing a blockage that affects the application of compulsory measures like electoral threshold rules crucial for countries like Germany. Moreover, the optional provisions of the reform have seen limited adoption, reflecting a broader lack of political commitment to a cohesive European electoral process.

The proposed reforms focus on ensuring better accessibility for disadvantaged groups, establishing common deadlines for electoral lists, preventing double voting, and enhancing the visibility and role of European political parties. These changes are seen as critical in creating a genuinely European public sphere where voters can easily identify and support their preferred political affiliations, strengthening the linkage between European citizens and their representatives in Parliament.

Rapporteur Borja Giménez Larraz commented on the urgency of the reforms, stating, “Today’s vote shows Parliament’s determination to strengthen our shared democratic space. By urging member states to finally align their rules, we take a concrete step toward European elections that are fairer, more transparent, and anchored in a genuinely common democratic framework.” The report is expected to be tabled for further discussion in the plenary session scheduled for January 2026, marking a crucial next step in the legislative process.

The ongoing efforts to reform the European Electoral Act underline the challenges of harmonizing electoral practices across diverse political landscapes while reinforcing the democratic integrity and participatory nature of European governance.