Shifting Alliances in the European Parliament: A New Configuration of Power
The European Parliament witnessed a notable realignment on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, as Polish MEP Ewa Zajączkowska-Hernik switched her political allegiance from the Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN) group to the Patriots for Europe (PfE) group. This move signals a continuing evolution of political groupings within the Parliament and highlights the dynamic nature of European political alliances.
The Rise of the Patriots for Europe
The PfE, founded after the 2024 European Parliament elections, is largely backed by Fidesz. Zajączkowska-Hernik’s decision to join the PfE is a boost to the group, which now numbers 85 members. Gál Kinga, the leader of the Fidesz–KDNP delegation and a vice-president of the PfE, celebrated the move, stating it demonstrates the group’s growing strength. The PfE absorbed many members from the former Identity and Democracy group following the 2024 elections.
The Europe of Sovereign Nations Faces Challenges
Conversely, the ESN, partially founded by Hungary’s Mi Hazánk movement, is experiencing shifts in its composition. The group currently holds 28 seats, a slight increase from its initial formation. The recent movement of members, including Zajączkowska-Hernik, and the earlier departure of Italian MEP Roberto Vannacci to the ESN, illustrates a fluidity within the far-right political landscape in Europe.
A Two-Way Street: Recent Factional Movements
The shift isn’t solely one-directional. Roberto Vannacci, previously with the PfE, moved to the ESN in February 2026. This reciprocal movement suggests a complex interplay of ideologies and political strategies within the Parliament. Vannacci had previously left Italy’s League party to form his own political entity.
Orbán’s Ambitions and the PfE’s Trajectory
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán initially expressed ambitions for the PfE to become the second-largest faction in the European Parliament. While the group hasn’t yet reached that goal, it maintains a solid third position. Despite a recent defection of a German member to the liberals, the PfE has maintained its current size.
The Broader Context: Fragmentation and Realignment
These shifts reflect a broader trend of fragmentation and realignment within the European Parliament. The expulsion of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) from the Identity and Democracy group prior to the 2024 elections contributed to the current reshuffling. The AfD constitutes roughly half of the ESN’s representatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN)? The ESN is a political group in the European Parliament founded in 2024, partially by Mi Hazánk. It currently has 28 members.
What is the Patriots for Europe (PfE)? The PfE is a political group in the European Parliament founded after the 2024 elections, largely backed by Fidesz. It currently has 85 members.
Why are MEPs changing political groups? MEPs change groups due to shifts in political ideologies, strategic alliances, and internal party dynamics.
Who is Ewa Zajączkowska-Hernik? Ewa Zajączkowska-Hernik is a Polish politician, historian, and journalist serving as a Member of the European Parliament since 2024.
Who is Roberto Vannacci? Roberto Vannacci is an Italian politician who recently moved from the Patriots for Europe group to the Europe of Sovereign Nations group.
What was Viktor Orbán’s goal for the PfE? Viktor Orbán aimed for the PfE to become the second-largest faction in the European Parliament.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the European Parliament’s website for official announcements regarding faction memberships and plenary session proceedings. View the session here.
Did you know? The composition of political groups in the European Parliament can significantly influence the legislative agenda and the outcome of key votes.
Stay informed about the evolving political landscape in Europe. Explore more articles on international affairs and European politics on our website.
