As the EU election approaches, the Socialist People’s Party (SF) stands at a crossroads where they could either play a central role or be pushed to the sidelines in European politics. This greatly depends on how votes are distributed across the political spectrum on June 9. SF, which is part of the Green Group in the EU Parliament, potentially has the opportunity to help secure a majority for the upcoming EU president. However, this scenario can only unfold if the political winds do not blow in favor of the right-wing. A significant increase in support for the right-wing could marginalize the Green Group and consequently SF’s influence in the parliament.
Kira Marie Peter-Hansen, SF’s lead candidate, is deeply involved in these political maneuvers. While preparing for the election by putting up posters in Copenhagen, she expresses a clear awareness of the two very different outcomes that may be in store. “Either we risk being marginalized, or we can be the ones who deliver the decisive votes for a majority,” she says.
Peter-Hansen, who also sits on the negotiating committee for the Green Group, hopes to continue the collaboration with pro-European forces that has characterized the last five years in the EU. She emphasizes the importance of Ursula von der Leyen and the conservative group continuing to support a Europe that focuses on green transition.
The election stands as a critical test for SF and their ability to influence European politics in a time where climate and the environment are higher on the agenda than ever before.