Key Developments in the European Parliament in 2025

As we approach the end of 2025, the European Parliament has seen significant political shifts and policy changes that have left a lasting impact on the EU landscape. This year was marked by attempts to challenge the leadership of Ursula von der Leyen, an emerging conservative alliance, a tougher stance on migration, and controversies surrounding corruption. In this article, we delve into the major events that defined the European Parliament this year.

1. The Looming Corruption Scandal

In March, a major corruption investigation sent shockwaves through the European Parliament. Belgian authorities launched an inquiry into alleged bribery involving Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and aides, with the Chinese tech giant Huawei purportedly at the center of the scandal. Allegations suggested that MEPs were swayed through payments, lavish gifts, and invitations to high-profile events.

Prosecutors charged eight individuals with a range of offenses, including corruption and money laundering, and sought to lift the parliamentary immunity of four MEPs: Salvatore De Meo, Fulvio Martusciello, Daniel Attard, and Nikola Minchev, all of whom denied the charges. Discussions about their immunity continue in the Parliament, with a decision expected in early 2026. Meanwhile, access for Huawei lobbyists has been restricted in Parliament’s premises across Europe.

2. Survival of von der Leyen’s Commission

Throughout 2025, members of the European Parliament attempted to challenge Ursula von der Leyen’s leadership with three successive no-confidence votes—an unusual situation for the chamber. Despite the efforts, none of the motions gained the necessary two-thirds majority to force her resignation, demonstrating the Parliament’s determination to stand behind the Commission.

The first vote, initiated by the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) in July, saw 360 MEPs defend the Commission, although this number was slightly lower than the support received in a previous vote. Notably, some MEPs from the Socialist and Renew Europe groups abstained as a form of protest against von der Leyen’s policies. The subsequent votes in October, brought forward by both the far-left and far-right parties, saw a strengthened majority backing the Commission, reinforcing von der Leyen’s position at its helm.

3. Hungarian Activists Stand Firm

This year also highlighted the EU Parliament’s stance on defending its members amid political strife. Peter Magyar, Klára Dobrev, and Ilaria Salis faced legal challenges in Hungary but maintained their parliamentary immunity. Magyar faced multiple requests for the lifting of his immunity over defamation claims and an altercation, which he regarded as politically motivated. Similarly, Dobrev was accused of defamation related to a scandal involving a local politician, while Salis was arrested during a protest. The Parliament firmly rejected the attempts to strip their immunity in a narrow vote, a move that Salis labeled a triumph against fascism.

4. The EPP’s Controversial Alliances

2025 also saw the European People’s Party (EPP) form unconventional alliances with far-right groups, straying from its traditional partnerships. This shift was evident in votes concerning migration and environmental policies, where the EPP collaborated with the ECR and other right-wing parties to push specific legislation. One significant example was the Omnibus I package, which rolled back due diligence requirements for companies, showcasing a departure from established norms in favor of political expediency.

5. Tougher Measures on Illegal Migration

As the year concluded, the Parliament rushed to approve critical migration legislation. A new definition of “safe third countries” was adopted, allowing the EU to deport asylum seekers to nations with which they have connections. Additionally, a revised list of “safe countries of origin” was established, including several nations from different continents. This alignment of positions on migration signals a shift towards stricter policies regarding illegal migration in Europe.

Conclusion

The 2025 parliamentary year was characterized by significant political struggles, eventual resolutions, and new alliances, evolving the landscape of the European Parliament. From corruption investigations to shifting migration policies, these events have set the stage for the future of European governance.

• Corruption investigations shook the Parliament’s credibility.
• Ursula von der Leyen’s leadership remained intact amidst no-confidence votes.
• Parliament upheld immunity for members facing legal challenges in Hungary.
• The EPP’s alliances with far-right groups reshaped political dynamics.
• Stricter migration policies were approved, indicating a tougher stance on asylum seekers.