fbpx

Elections force change on EU

4794Leaders of the EU have agreed to review its agenda after the “strong message” delivered by the EU-wide vote, according to the president of the European Council, Herman van Rompuy.

He noted that they had agreed to focus primarily on the economy, believing that growth will ease growing anti-Europe sentiment.

Large election gains were recorded for populist and far-right parties from a number of countries, such as France, Greece, Denmark and the UK.

Despite the gains by parties opposed to the EU, those supporting it still won the most votes overall.

The first gathering was on Tuesday following initial results being announced on Sunday evening.

Mr van Rompuy said that voters’ Eurosceptic trend was “at the heart” of discussions between the leaders.

Speaking after the meeting in Brussels, French Prime Minister Hollande said the National Front victory was "traumatic for France and Europe."

Mr Hollande’s Socialists placed third in the election while the far-right National Front took prime position.

"France cannot live isolated and frightened. Its destiny is in Europe," he added.

Also on the agenda is the appointment of the head of the Commission as Manuel Barroso is due to step down. Traditionally EU leaders agreed on the appointment on their own, but new rules require them to “take account” of European election results.

Pin It