Ahead of the 2029 European Elections

Policy Study

The journey to the next election begins the moment polls close on the last. Whether celebrating a victory or recovering from a setback, political leaders know that every new term ultimately ends with citizens passing judgment on their work. For members of the European Parliament (EP), this accountability cycle has been particularly significant since the first direct elections in 1979, continually inspiring discussions about electoral reform and democratic engagement.

This “Ahead of the 2029 European Elections – Note to ourselves” is a forward-looking reflection based on insights gathered by FEPS and FES Brussels in partnership with scholars, politicians, youth, and civil society organisations. Through a series of roundtables, these partners explored questions that shape Europe’s democratic landscape: the effectiveness of transnational campaigns, the Spitzenkandidaten process, the potential of transnational lists, and the transparency of post-election negotiations.

The findings reveal both the opportunities and challenges ahead. While significant reforms—such as changes to the European electoral code and party regulations—are complex and may require treaty changes, the discussions highlight clear areas for growth. By focusing on representative democracy, transparency, and voter mobilisation, these debates aim to spark innovation and inspire a progressive vision for the 2029 elections.

This document preserves the most valuable points from these roundtables, aiming to motivate ambition, cultivate new ideas, and ensure that the next EP election campaign connects more deeply with citizens, fosters higher voter turnout, and strengthens European democracy.

The video series “Ahead of the 2029 European elections”, based on the policy briefs of the same title, explores key reforms to strengthen transnational EU politics and prepare for the 2029 EU elections with Members of the European Parliament including:

• Gabriele Bischoff on EU elections
• Brando Benifei on the Conference on the Future of Europe
• Juan Fernando López Aguilar on citizen participation in the EU
• Katarina Barley on representation of women in the European Parliament
• Andreas Schieder on transnational European parties

For more information regarding this policy study, please connect with Ania Skrzypek, FEPS Director for Research and Training (ania.skrzypek@feps-europe.eu) or Céline Guedes, FEPs Project Officer (celine.guedes@feps-europe.eu).