The center-right European People's Party (EPP) grouping emerged from June's European Parliament elections as the biggest winner. The mainly Christian Democrat alliance increased it's tally of seats to 224, from 201 in the outgoing parliament, to become the largest bloc in the assembly. The EPP moved ahead of the Party of European Socialists which saw the number of seats it holds drop from 214 to 180. It was the first time since direct elections were introduced in 1979 that the socialists did not come out on top.

The powers of the European Parliament have increased steadily over the last 20 years as members gain an increased say over more areas of legislation. The EPP's platform espouses radical institutional reform to prepare for expansion of the European Union to Central and Eastern Europe. In an action plan adopted in February it also called for job creation through stimulation of growth and competitiveness, increased labor market flexibility, an overhaul of the welfare system and increased provision of training and further education. The EPP also emphasises crime fighting and the introduction of a common EU policy on immigration, asylum and foreign and security issues.