ECR Group: A Eurorealist Force in the European Parliament

Background

The European Conservatives and Reformists Group (ECR) is a centre-right political group in the European Parliament. It was created in 2009 by a merger of the European Conservatives (EC) and the Reformists and Conservatives (RC) groups.

Eurorealism

The ECR primarily comprises Euroskeptic parties, advocating for a less centralized and more decentralized European Union. They believe in reducing the EU's powers and returning them to member states.

Political Platform

The ECR supports free market economics, individual liberty, and national sovereignty. It opposes excessive EU regulation and bureaucracy, calling for a more flexible and competitive EU.

Membership

The ECR is the fourth-largest group in the European Parliament, with 62 members from 15 different countries. Its largest delegation comes from Poland, with 27 members.

Leadership

The ECR is led by Ryszard Legutko (Poland, Law and Justice), who has served as its co-chairman since 2019. Other prominent members include Raffaele Fitto (Italy, Brothers of Italy) and Anna Fotyga (Poland, Law and Justice).

Recent Developments

The ECR has been critical of the EU's response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis it has caused. It has also opposed plans for deeper EU integration and centralization.

Conclusion

The ECR Group is a significant force in the European Parliament, representing a Euroskeptic and conservative viewpoint. Its members advocate for a more decentralized EU, with reduced powers and increased national sovereignty.