EPP Annual Review 2016

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

Welcome to the European People’s Party (EPP), the political family of the centre right. The EPP is committed to a strong Europe based on a federal model that relies on the principle of subsidiarity. Through the promotion of the social market economy, the EPP aspires to achieve a prosperous Europe.


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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

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01

02WELCOMEto the EPP

04European Council- EPP Summit

06Summit Highlights

10Heads of State and Government

13Ministerial Meetings

16European Commission

18European Parliament

19Decision-Making Bodies

20FOCUS!EPP Congress 2015Madrid

26Political AssemblyHighlights

27Committeeof the Regions

28Euronest / Council of Europe / OSCE / NATO

29Working Groups / Events

32Foreign Affairs

34Communications

36Structure andResources

37Headquarters / Internship Programme

38Member Associations

40Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies

42Who is Who

44Member Parties

47Map of Europe

EPP Annual Review 2015This publication is produced by the EPP Press and Communications Department.

Date of issueDecember 2015

Editor in ChiefSiegfried MUREŞAN

Assistant EditorsJohn LAGESONEcaterina CASINGEKarine MILHEIRO

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PhotosEuropean People’s PartyEuropean CommissionEuropean Parliament

Download this publicationwww.epp.eu

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Printed with the financial support of the European Parliament.

This publication is up-to-date as of December 2015. However, political situations are changing constantly, and the information in this publication is bound to change. Please visit our website at www.epp.eu for current information.

Contents


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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

Welcome to the EPP02


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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

“THE ONLY WAYWE CAN ADDRESS COMMON THREATS AND SHAREDBURDENS IS TO STAND SHOULDER TO SHOULDER AS EUROPEANS.”

JOSEPH DAULEPP PRESIDENT

ANTONIO LÓPEZ-ISTÚRIZ EPP SECRETARY GENERAL

03ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 WELCOME TO THE EPP

Welcome to the European People’s Party (EPP), the political family of the centre right. The EPP’s roots run deep in the history and civilisation of Europe and have pioneered the European project since its inception. Tracing our roots to the European Union’s founding fathers - Robert SCHUMAN, Alcide DE GASPERI, and Konrad ADENAUER - the EPP is committed to a strong Europe based on a federal model that relies on the principle of subsidiarity.

Founded in 1976, the EPP is a party of values based on the Christian view of mankind and the Christian Democratic concept of society. The EPP strives for a democratic, transparent and efficient Europe that is close to its citizens. Through the promotion of the social market economy, the EPP aspires to achieve a prosperous Europe.

As of the beginning of 2016, the EPP is the largest European-level political party with 75 member parties from 40 countries, 8 EU and 5 non-EU heads of state and government, 14 European Commissioners, the largest Group in the European Parliament with 216 members, and the heads of two of the main EU institutions: the European Commission with Jean-Claude JUNCKER and the European Council with Donald TUSK.

2015 has been a year of serious challenges for Europe: the escalating economic and financial difficulties in Greece in the beginning of the year; the migration crisis that reached an unprecedented scale and is challenging our capacity to cope at the national and local levels; the continuing Russian aggression in our Eastern Neighbourhood and the conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa; and the horrific terrorist attacks in Paris in January and November.

And yet, in the face of these challenges and tragedies, we are more convinced than ever that there is only one way forward: a closer and more united Europe. Indeed, the only way we can address common threats and shared burdens is to stand shoulder to shoulder as Europeans.

In doing so, we must continue to rely on the values that are non-negotiable and have sustained and guided us on the path to the Europe we have today: the dignity of the human being, freedom, responsibility, solidarity, equality, truth, justice, and subsidiarity. These are the values of the EPP. Throughout 2015, the EPP, as the largest political force in Europe, has borne the great responsibility to lead, govern and deliver results for our citizens. Despite the numerous challenges, we have succeeded in this by continuing to work across and throughout our political family—with our member parties and associations, our heads of state and government, ministers, leaders in the EU institutions, our Groups in the European Parliament and Committee of the Regions, Groups in other Parliamentary Assemblies and a wide network of likeminded and allied partners in Europe and beyond. We are proud that the EPP political family today is stronger, more united and more vibrant than ever before.

The strength, unity and energy within our party were only reinforced when the EPP political family gathered under the motto “Together- Unidos” for the XXIII EPP Congress in Madrid on 21-22 October, hosted by Prime Minister Mariano RAJOY and the Partido Popular. This event, which gathered more than 3,000 participants including leaders, delegates, guests and journalists, showed once more that we are the political force in Europe capable of coming together in order to tackle serious challenges and stand up for what is right.

In Madrid the EPP family debated and adopted a resolution on the migration crisis, “Protecting refugees - securing the EU’s external borders - stepping up action against irregular migration”, which calls for a series of concrete actions at the European level. This document represents the most comprehensive and far-reaching proposal put forward by any EU-level political family in response to the migration challenge.

In addition, the EPP delegates adopted a major paper titled “Protecting the Union and Promoting Our Values”, which addresses the full range of issues we are facing in foreign policy, security and defence. Reaching consensus on these complex issues is not always simple, especially with members of our political family hailing from all corners of Europe, each with their own national-level concerns. And yet, both of these documents—as well as the multiple other resolutions debated, amended and ultimately adopted at the Madrid Congress—prove that the EPP is able to unite around core values and act for the citizens of Europe. This is all the more important considering that boundaries between internal and external policies are almost non-existent and that nation states can no longer cope with threats and challenges alone. We must work together.

The Congress in Madrid may have taken place over the course of just two days, but it is symbolic of the work that goes on every day within the EPP family and among our leaders in the EU institutions and around Europe, whether at the level of ministers, heads of state and government, parliamentarians or other stakeholders. This work is guided by our values and the firm belief that we are all better off when we come closer together as Europeans. We are inspired by the conviction that a strong, united and prosperous Europe is a force for good in the world. And we are convinced that a better Europe—and a better world—are possible when we act together. The people of Europe can count on the EPP to continue this work day in and day out. We are and will remain at the service of the citizens of Europe.

“The EPP family has proven this year once again that it is able to unite around core values and act for thecitizens of Europe.”

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European Council- EPP Summit

ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

“EUROPE WILL STAY THE COURSE, EVEN THOUGH IT IS NOW CONFRONTING CHALLENGES UNSEEN AND UNHEARD OF FOR DECADES. AS DIFFICULT AS THE SITUATION IS, I AM SURE THAT WE WILL COPE WITH IT, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, WE WILL, AT THE SAME TIME, REMAIN DEDICATED TO HELPING MAKE THE WHOLE WORLD A BETTER PLACE.”

DONALD TUSK PRESIDENT OF THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL

05ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 EUROPEAN COUNCIL - EPP SUMMIT

Statutory Summits are limited to the representatives of the Member States of the European Union, while the Enlarged Summits are also open to EPP leaders from non-EU countries. During these informal and confidential meetings, our leaders try to seek consensus within the EPP political family in an effort to tackle common problems and develop common positions at the European Council.

In the first half of 2015, Latvia held the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union under the leadership of Prime Minister Laimdota STRAUJUMA.

Prior to the meetings of the European Council, the EPP presidents of the European institutions, EPP heads of state and government, deputy prime ministers, opposition leaders, and the EPP Presidency meet for Summits which are hosted by EPP President Joseph DAUL.

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

Summit Highlights

01STATUTORY SUMMITBRUSSELS, BELGIUM12 FEBRUARY 2015

The participants started this Statutory Summit by paying tribute to Leo TINDEMANS, the first EPP President and a great European. While Chancellor Angela MERKEL was negotiating a ceasefire for eastern Ukraine in Minsk on the day of the Summit, the President of the European Council, Donald TUSK, outlined the main points on the agenda of the European Council: Ukraine, Greece and a declaration on terrorism, prepared by the Latvian Presidency headed by Laimdota STRAUJUMA. European Commission President Jean-Claude JUNCKER focused on the Greek situation and warned that the new Greek government, which wanted to extend and amend the assistance programme, could not handle this unilaterally. All EPP leaders agreed that Greece needs to stick to its commitments. Former Greek Prime Minister Antonis SAMARAS pledged to keep Greece on the European path, together with pro-European and pro-reform partners in the country. This was the first Summit attended by the newly elected Romanian President Klaus IOHANNIS, Belgian Deputy Prime Minister Kris PEETERS and Swedish Moderaterna President Anna KINBERG BATRA. Nicolas SARKOZY, President of the French UMP (now Les Républicains) returned to the EPP Summit in his new capacity. The participants also offered their congratulations on the election of Kolinda GRABAR-KITAROVIC as President of Croatia.

02ENLARGED SUMMITBRUSSELS, BELGIUM19 MARCH 2015

The Energy Union figured prominently in the agenda of the Enlarged Summit. EPP Vice-President Jacek SARYUSZ-WOLSKI presented the main points of the EPP paper titled “Energy Union as a vehicle for enhancing freedom, security and growth” and stressed the necessity of transparency in the agreement. The paper was adopted by the EPP leaders and hereby became the EPP’s official position on the Energy Union. Other topics of the EPP Summit were: the European Semester, Greece and Ukraine. In preparation of the EPP Leaders’ Meeting in Riga, the representatives of the Eastern Partnership countries, but also those of the Balkans, updated the EU leaders about the situations in their countries. Prime Minister Arseniy YATSENJUK spoke about the war in eastern Ukraine, the dramatic economic and financial situation, the fight against corruption and the sanctions against Russia. This was the first Summit for Isa MUSTAFA in his new capacity as the Prime Minister of Kosovo.

07ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 SUMMIT HIGHLIGHTS

03ENLARGED SUMMITBRUSSELS, BELGIUM25 JUNE 2015

EPP President Joseph DAUL welcomed Estonian IRL President Margus TSHAHKNA, Lithuanian TS-LKD President Gabrielius LANDSBERGIS and Moldovan Interim Prime Minister Natalia GHERMAN, and thanked the Norwegian Prime Minister and President of Høyre Erna SOLBERG for hosting the EPP Political Assembly in Oslo earlier in the month. The President of the European Commission Jean-Claude JUNCKER received congratulations on the adoption by the European Parliament of the 315 billion euro investment plan. He and Latvian Prime Minister Laimdota STRAUJUMA introduced the topics on the agenda of the European Council: migration, Greece, the Five Presidents’ Report on the completion of the economic and monetary union, security and the UK. The discussions focused mainly on Greece and migration. Vice-President Michel BARNIER presented the conclusions of the EPP Expert Group on Security and Defence, which he headed, and emphasised that the EPP should remain the driving force on this issue. Finally the EPP’s work on e-skills was also presented.

04STATUTORY SUMMITBRUSSELS, BELGIUM12 JULY 2015

This extraordinary EPP Summit was called in order to prepare a special Eurozone Summit on Greece. In the absence of an agreement at the level of the Finance Ministers, the heads of State and Governmentwere now at the negotiation table. The President of the European Council Donald TUSK gave a state of play and warned of dramatic consequences in the absence of an agreement on Greece: either we would come to an agreement to start negotiations on financial assistance from the ESM, or Greece would leave the Eurozone. The President of the European Commission Jean-Claude JUNCKER said that the current Greek proposal is similar to that of the institutions; however the amount needed is of a totally different dimension. The EPP leaders underlined that rules need to be respected, that measures need to be implemented and that the supplementary money could have been used for growth measures in Greece. Nea Demokratia, the Greek member party of EPP, was represented by its interim President Evangelos MEIMARAKIS, who said that after six months of a Syriza government, Greece is in a worse state than three years ago. He promised that his party will vote on all the necessary measures in the Greek Parliament to keep Greece in the Eurozone. President Joseph DAUL hailed the work of the EPP Eurozone Finance Ministers in this regard.

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05STATUTORY SUMMITBRUSSELS, BELGIUM23 SEPTEMBER 2015

Another EPP Statutory Summit took place in September to prepare an Extraordinary European Council on migration. The President hailed the courageous proposals put forward by the European Commission and stressed the need to stay united and to move ahead. Coming back from his mission to the region, the President of the European Council Donald TUSK described the number of refugees due to the war in Syria, with a majority of them internally displaced or finding shelter in the neighbouring countries. It is our duty as European to help those neighbouring countries. He stressed that all EU Member States must show solidarity, but he hoped that a qualified majority voting on the quota could be avoided. Questions were raised why Greece and Italy had not managed to protect their borders and to register the migrants. Chancellor Angela MERKEL discussed the loopholes in our current migration policy which we need to close to find a sustainable solution, while the President of Les Républicains Nicolas SARKOZY pleaded for a re-founding of Schengen. The EPP leaders adopted a common position on the refugee crisis. The result of Nea Demokratia in the Greek elections was positively received. ND Leader Evangelos MEIMARAKIS commented on the elections’ outcome as well as on the agreement reached between Greece and the institutions.

06STATUTORY SUMMITBRUSSELS, BELGIUM15 OCTOBER 2015

The focus of the October Summit in Brussels was again on the migration crisis. The President of the European Council Donald TUSK underlined the need to protect the external borders and to achieve a real migratory policy that answers our citizens’ concerns. The EPP migration policy is about helping refugees and the protection of our borders. Several solutions were discussed. The leaders agreed that it was key to not only decide on measures but also to implement them. Furthermore, Prime Minister Pedro PASSOS COELHO was congratulated on his electoral victory in Portugal; he won despite having to take severe measures to put the Portuguese economy back on track after the devastating governance of the left. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano RAJOY invited all the leaders to the EPP Congress in Madrid. While President Joseph DAUL elaborated on the Congress document on EPP values in foreign, security and defence policy and the migration resolution, Secretary-General Antonio LÓPEZ-ISTÚRIZ presented the Congress programme.


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Summit Highlights

09ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 SUMMIT HIGHLIGHTS

07ENLARGED SUMMITMADRID, SPAIN22 OCTOBER 2015

The EPP leaders came to Madrid to support Prime Minister Mariano RAJOY and the Partido Popular ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections in December. The Prime Minister thanked the EPP leaders for being present at the EPP Congress and for supporting him and his party. Several leaders congratulated President Joseph DAUL on his re-election at the head of Europe’s biggest party. After a tour de table on the situations in the EU’s neighbouring countries and conclusions drawn by EPP Vice- President and Enlargement Negotiations and Neighbourhood Commissioner Johannes HAHN, the discussion quickly shifted to the migration problem, as the countries of several non-EU representatives are on the so-called Balkan route. Next to the protection of the external border and common solutions, an agreement with Turkey was urgently required. Prime Minister Erna SOLBERG spoke about the migration challenge from the Norwegian perspective and stressed that a joint approach is needed. Aleksandr VUČIĆ, the Serbian Prime Minister and the President of EPP applicant party SNS, was invited as a guest to the EPP Congress and the EPP Summit. He presented the situation in his country as well as the advance made on the way to the EU. The Moldovan Prime Minister and leader of PLDM Valeriu STRELEȚ participated in his first EPP Summit.

08STATUTORY SUMMIT BRUSSELS, BELGIUM17 DECEMBER 2015

President Joseph DAUL welcomed the President of the Danish Conservatives Soren Pape POULSON, who reported on the Danish referendum, and ND Interim President Ioannis PLAKIOTAKIS, both of whom were participating in their first EPP Summit. While the President of the European Council Donald TUSK elaborated on the different points on the agenda of the European Council, namely migration, the fight against terrorism, the EU negotiations with the UK, to further develop the economic and monetary union and the internal market, the President of the European Commission Jean-Claude JUNCKER presented the Commission proposal for a European border and coast guard. This proposal was very much welcomed by all the Summit participants. They agreed that a swift agreement and implementation of this European border and coast guard is needed and they also discussed the common action programme with Turkey. EPP Group Chairman Manfred WEBER spoke about the migration and UK debate and reported on the issues at the top of the EP-agenda. The participants of the EPP Summit adopted a declaration expressing their support to Mariano RAJOY and Partido Popular ahead of the parliamentary elections in Spain.

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Heads of State and Government

As of December 2015, the EPP has 8 out of 28 EU heads of state and government, who meet at the EPP Summit meetings in preparation for the European Council.

EULEADERS

Nicos ANASTASIADESCyprus, DISY

Boyko BORISSOV Bulgaria, GERB

Laimdota STRAUJUMALatvia, Vienotība

Klaus IOHANNIS Romania, PNL

Enda KENNY Ireland, FG

Viktor ORBÁN Hungary, FIDESZ

Mariano RAJOY Spain, PP

Angela MERKEL Germany, CDU

11ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT

The EPP has 5 non-EU heads of state and government, who are invited to attend the Enlarged EPP Summit meetings.

NON-EULEADERS

Serzh SARGSYANArmenia, HHK

Isa MUSTAFAKosovo, LDK

Erna SOLBERGNorway, Høyre

Nikola GRUEVSKIF.Y.R.O.M., VMRO-DPMNE

Dragan ČOVIĆ Bosnia-Herzegovina, HDZ BiH

12 ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 EUROPEAN COUNCIL - EPP SUMMIT

Eight EPP Summits were held in 2015, which is considerably more than in the pre-2014 period. This is due to the fact that more meetings of the European Council took place as a consequence of the crisis in Greece and the refugee and migration crisis.

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Ministerial Meetings

01ECONOMY AND FINANCE MINISTERS (ECOFIN)Chaired by Luis DE GUINDOS (PP, Spain) and Mateusz SZCZUREK (PO, Poland)*

ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

02EXTRAORDINARY EPP EUROGROUPSChaired by Luis DE GUINDOS (PP, Spain) and Joseph DAUL (EPP President)

03FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTERSChaired by Elmar BROK (CDU, Germany) and Sebastian KURZ (ÖVP, Austria)

The meetings of the EPP Economy and Finance Ministers in 2015 focused on the negotiations with the Syriza-led Greek government and the 315 billion euro Investment Plan of the Commission. The Ministers held various discussions on the economic outlook of the member states’ economies and debated policies on how to boost economic growth and create more jobs. The Ministers also worked together with the leading EPP Members of the European Parliament on economic and financial topics, such as banking union or capital markets union, on which the European Parliament and the Council share competences.

The Ministers also worked in close cooperation with the Vice-President of the European Commission for the Euro and Social Dialogue, Valdis DOMBROVSKIS, and with the Vice-President of the European Commission for Jobs, Growth, Investment and Competitiveness, Jyrki KATAINEN.

* Mateusz SZCZUREK served in this role until November 2015.

In 2015, the EPP Foreign Affairs Ministers gathered ahead of the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meetings in order to prepare the agenda and analyse significant recent developments regarding foreign policy issues.

The Ministers, who met eight times in 2015, focused on assessing the current challenges the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is facing today, especially regarding the ongoing crisis with ISIS in Iraq and Syria, the refugee and migration crisis, and the threat of global terrorism.

In this framework, the Co-chairs Elmar BROK and Sebastian KURZ issued statements putting forward a common position and calling for a concerted and comprehensive European response in order to tackle these challenges. European Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes HAHN participated in the discussions, especially on topics like the Eastern Partnership, EU-Russia relations, the crisis in Libya and Yemen, the Middle East Peace Process, a strategic debate on EU-Africa relations and the revision of the European Neighbourhood Policy.

In the spring of 2015, when the situation with Greece became acute following Syriza coming to power, the EPP Eurozone Ministers began holding preparatory EPP Eurogroup meetings chaired by Minister Luis DE GUINDOS and President Joseph DAUL. These meetings emphasised the sharing of information, coordinating and consolidating positions during the crucial months before an agreement was found. The EPP’s position throughout the negotiations was that only thorough the implementation of structural reforms, Greece could ensure that its economy will grow and prosper. Between June and August alone, the Ministers met 10 times. Throughout all of these meetings, the Ministers worked in close cooperation with the Vice-President of the European Commission for the Euro and Social Dialogue, Valdis DOMBROVSKIS, and with the Vice-President of the European Commission for Jobs, Growth, Investment and Competitiveness, Jyrki KATAINEN.

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05ENVIRONMENT MINISTERS Chaired by Jorge MOREIRA DA SILVA (PSD, Portugal)

04AGRICULTURE MINISTERS Chaired by Andrä RUPPRECHTER (ÖVP, Austria) and Simon COVENEY (FG, Ireland)

06GENERAL AFFAIRS MINISTERSChaired by Íñigo MÉNDEZ DE VIGO* (PP, Spain) Dara MURPHY* (FG, Ireland) and Jacek SARYUSZ-WOLSKI (PO, Poland)

This Ministers Meeting gathers Foreign and European Affairs Ministers in preparation for the General Affairs Council. Over the course of 2015, the EPP Ministers focused their discussions on the refugee and migration crisis, the exchange with the United Kingdom regarding the upcoming referendum on EU membership that will take place before the end of 2017, and transatlantic relations with a special focus on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) currently being negotiated.

* Inigo MENDEZ DE VIGO served in this role until June 2015. Dara MURPHY took over as co-chair as of July 2015.

Ministerial Meetings

07JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS MINISTERSChaired by Thomas DE MAIZIÈRE (CDU, Germany) and Esteban GONZÁLEZ PONS (PP, Spain)

Throughout 2015 the Ministers continued to address the consequences of the Russian ban on EU agricultural products by putting in place emergency market measures, especially in the markets for fruits, vegetables, meat products and dairy. The dairy sector featured heavily on the Ministers’ agenda, also due to the abolition of EU milk quotas resulting in large protests by European farmers against falling dairy prices. The Ministers discussed possible measures like price intervention, aid to private storage, advance payments and export subsidies, while agreeing on the need for a joint approach in negotiations with the Commission. The Ministers also discussed organic farming and the state of play in international agricultural trade issues. Phil HOGAN, the European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, regularly participated in the meetings.

Although no EPP Environment Ministers Meeting was held in 2015, this gathering constitutes one of the EPP’s permanent Ministerial Meetings and normally takes place before every meeting of the Environment Council. Still, in 2015 the Environment Ministers actively contributed to an EPP resolution titled “Achieving food security while combatting climate change – the need for a global commitment to ensure sustainable development”, which was adopted at the EPP Congress in Madrid on 21-22 October 2015.

The priorities of the EPP Justice and Home Affairs Ministers in 2015 continued to focus on solutions for the refugee and migration crisis in Europe. Other key topics included the challenging situation arising from the war in Syria and the activities of ISIS. In cooperation with the EPP Interior Ministers, the EPP presented a resolution titled “Protecting refugees – securing the EU´s external borders – stepping up action against irregular migration”, which was adopted by the EPP Congress on 21-22 October in Madrid.

In its resolution, the EPP is advocating for a concerted and comprehensive European action, with measures aimed at countries of origin, transit and destination. The EPP believes that Europe must help the people in need who are fleeing war torn countries but economic migrants must be returned swiftly to their country of origin. Moreover, the EPP proposes a new European Asylum System, in which asylum is to be requested and processed outside the EU or at the EU’s borders. The EPP also advocates a strengthening of the EU’s external borders and the creation of safe zones in or close to the countries of origin.

15ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 MINISTERIAL MEETINGS

The European People’s Party organises and coordinates from its Brussels headquarters a series of Ministerial Meetings, which underpin the horizontal activity of the Party with all the main EU institutions including the Council of the EU.

09DEFENCE MINISTERSChaired by Ursula VON DER LEYEN (CDU, Germany)

The EPP has taken the lead on security and defence issues by re-convening the Defence Ministerial Meeting. In 2015, the EU Council reviewed the European Defence Union policy, for which the EPP drafted an exclusive policy document under the lead of Michel Barnier, an EPP Vice-President until October 2015. This paper involved the EPP Defence Ministers and was taken under consideration in the context of the EU Council conclusions and the EPP Congress document for the Madrid Congress in October. The EPP will continue to remain

08TRADE MINISTERS Chaired by Richard BRUTON (FG, Ireland) and Daniel CASPARY (CDU, Germany)

11EMPLOYMENT MINISTERSChaired by Pedro MOTA SOARES (CDS-PP, Portugal) and Marianne THYSSEN* (CD&V, Belgium)

12COMPETITIVENESS MINISTERS (INDUSTRY AND SINGLE MARKET)Chaired by Antonio TAJANI (FI, Italy) and Richard BRUTON (FG, Ireland)

The EPP Competitiveness Ministers focused on measures to strengthen the economic recovery and set the building blocks for boosting economic growth and job creation in the EU. In 2015, the Ministers focused in particular on the completion of the Single Market and the new initiatives by the European Commission. The Ministers also worked in close cooperation with the leading EPP Members of the European Parliament in the fields of industrial and single market policies, as well as with European Commissioner Elżbieta BIEŃKOWSKA, who is responsible for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs.

10ENERGY MINISTERSChaired by Jacek SARYUSZ-WOLSKI (PO, Poland)

In 2015, the EPP launched a new Ministerial Meeting focusing on trade, particularly in light of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) negotiations currently in progress with the United States. The Ministers discussed the state of play in the negotiations and the political situations regarding TTIP in the Member States. They also focused on the European Parliament’s draft recommendations on TTIP ahead of the Parliament’s July vote. The EPP will closely follow TTIP going forward and will continue to engage with the EPP Ministers and Members of the European Parliament in order to push for a comprehensive and balanced agreement that benefits European workers, companies and consumers.

The EPP Energy Ministers focused in 2015 on the implementation of the Energy Union, the EU’s Energy Security Strategy and international relations in the field of energy, especially the state of play concerning Europe’s energy dependence on Russia. In March, the Ministers prepared an EPP Declaration titled “Energy Union as a Vehicle for Enhancing Freedom, Security and Growth”, a declaration which was later adopted by the EPP heads of state and government at the EPP Summit on 19 March in Brussels. The declaration calls for the better interconnectivity of energy networks among the Member States, a common integrated energy market through enhanced regional cooperation, more competitiveness and low energy prices, a consumer-empowering approach for the new digital age, a low-carbon economy, diversification of the energy supply and sources, and a more consolidated European energy neighbourhood policy.

In 2015, the EPP Employment Ministers focused on measures to tackle unemployment across Europe. The Ministers worked in close cooperation with the European Commissioner Marianne THYSSEN, who also became a co-chair, and who is responsible for employment, social affairs, skills and labour mobility. The meetings also regularly involved leading MEPs from the EPP Group who are active in the field of employment policy.

* Marianne Thyssen was appointed co-chair in March 2015.

engaged in promoting security and defence policies aimed at a new decision-making process, implementing the first battlegroups, ensuring formal Defence Council meetings and by having closer cooperation with NATO.

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

European Commission

JEAN-CLAUDE JUNCKERPresident of the European Commission – Luxembourg

“I am the first President of the Commission whose nomination and election is the direct result of the outcome of the European Parliament elections in May 2014. Having campaigned as a lead candidate, as Spitzenkandidat, in the run up to the elections, I had the opportunity to be a more political President. This political role is foreseen by the Treaties, by means of which the Member States made the Commission the promoter of the general interest of the Union.”

KRISTALINA GEORGIEVAVice-President; Budget and Human Resources – Bulgaria

“At a moment when Europe is under pressure on a number of fronts, it is important that we are able to align resources with priorities. We have made the EU budget more agile, more efficient, and more capable to tackle the challenges we face. For example we swiftly doubled our funding to deal with the refugee crisis, providing close to €10 billion for action at home and where the refugees come from.”

JYRKI KATAINENVice-President; Jobs, Growth, Investment and Competitiveness – Finland

“Europe is facing an investment gap. We need to make long-term financing available for projects that contribute towards our common priorities for Europe: energy, digital, transport and innovation; as well as supporting the backbone of our economy: SMEs and mid-cap companies. The European Fund for Strategic Investments, which is at the heart of the Investment Plan for Europe, is already financing the real economy and creating jobs across Europe.”

The European Commission under President Jean-Claude Juncker took office on 1 November 2014.

VALDIS DOMBROVSKISVice-President; Euro and Social Dialogue – Latvia

“Europe’s Economic and Monetary Union needs strong foundations, not least to be more resilient to future shocks and withstand the global challenges ahead of us. We have proposed tangible steps this year towards improving the EU’s economic governance rules. Any risk-sharing must go hand-in-hand with stronger rules and more sovereignty sharing.”

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 EUROPEAN COMMISSION

DIMITRIS AVRAMOPOULOSMigration, Home Affairs and Citizenship – Greece

“In the area of migration, it is important that we share responsibility not only for providing protection to those in genuine need, but that we also ensure that those who do not merit protection and no longer meet the condi-tions to stay in the Schengen area are swiftly returned to their countries of origin, either directly or through transit states.”

MIGUEL ARIAS CAÑETEClimate Action and Energy – Spain

“Europe succeeded in cutting emissions by 23% between 1990 and 2014 while the European economy grew by 46% over the same period. We have shown consistently that climate protection and economic growth go hand in hand. This was a strong signal ahead of the Paris climate conference where Europe stood by its commitments and showed that our climate and energy policies work.”

PHIL HOGANAgriculture & Rural Development – Ireland

“Demand for agricultural products is growing. At the same time, resource efficiency and the environmental footprint of agricultural production must be enhanced. There is a need for sustainable intensification, producing more from less. Research and innovation will be absolutely essential to make these changes happen.”

TIBOR NAVRACSICSEducation, Culture, Youth and Sport – Hungary

“Investing in education is crucial. It is indispensable in helping young people find their place in the job market and in society - and in building open, tolerant communities. I encourage Member States and education authorities to make the most of the support the EU can offer in this regard, for instance through the Investment Plan for Europe.”

CHRISTOS STYLIANIDESHumanitarian Aid and Crisis Management – Cyprus

“To solve the refugee crisis, we need to tackle the root causes of forced displacements inside Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan. We need to continue supporting neighbouring countries that are already hosting large numbers of refugees. It is our collective responsibility to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to vulnerable.”

ELŻBIETA BIEŃKOWSKA Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurshipand SMEs - Poland

“Effective enforcement is the key for the successful implementation of the Single Market Strategy adopted this year by the European Commission. Apart from the single market, in 2016 we will also focus on the challenges in space & defence sectors, as announced in the Work Programme of the Commission.”

JOHANNES HAHNEuropean Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations – Austria

“We have launched this year a new European Neighbourhood Policy which lays the groundwork for more effective partnerships to promote democratic reforms. A European perspective in the EU’s enlargement policy remains as important as ever to stabilize ourneighbours. I want to make our enlargement policy more robust to deliver better prepared new members when the time comes.”

CARLOS MOEDASResearch, Science and Innovation – Portugal

“We shouldn’t be afraid to try out new things, as long as we have the discipline to throw out those that don’t work and to put all our effortsinto those that do. We must always commit to reaching new people: young researchers, dynamic entrepreneurs, and we must let go of ideas and initiatives that are no longer relevant to progress in European research and innovation.”

GÜNTHER OETTINGERDigital Economy and Society – Germany

“Our economies and societies are going digital. Future prosperity will depend largely on how well we master this transition. Europe has strengths to build on, but also some homework to do. We are currently working full speed to prepare for a modern society.”

MARIANNE THYSSENEmployment, Social Affairs, Skills and Labour Mobility – Belgium

“I want a fresh start for Europe. My first priority is to give a new push for job creation. Tackling unemployment, inequality and poverty is not about keeping the lid on the pot. It is a matter of principle. Our commitment is to ensure political, economic and social stability and progress so that nobody is left behind.”

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European Parliament

ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

In 2015, the Group of the European People’s Party (Christian Democrats) in the European Parliament intensified its efforts to overcome the challenges faced by the EU. The migration crisis, the terrorist attacks and threats, economic and political instability in Greece, further destabilisation in Ukraine and the decision by the UK Government to hold a membership referendum severely tested Europe’s unity. The EPP Group played an important role in shaping responses towards these and other challenges, thereby bolstering the EU’s cohesion to face these interlocking crises. With 216 MEPs from 27 Member States the EPP Group is the largest and most influential political force in the European Parliament. The Group provides the backbone for reinforced European cooperation to the benefit of all European citizens. Urging a comprehensive approach to deal with the migration crisis, the EPP Group was the driving force behind a European migration plan with the principle of concrete solidarity at its centre. The EPP Group requests a fair sharing of responsibilities between Member States, strengthened controls of external borders and reinforced Frontex, the creation of “hot spots” where migrants are received and registered, a list of safe countries and a working returns policy. Europe should offer protection to those in need, but those migrants who do not qualify for asylum should be returned swiftly to their countries of origin. The wider security environment surrounding the EU became more complex and volatile throughout 2015. With the EPP values and interests being challenged the Group pursued the development of a fully-fledged common defense policy providing equal security for all Member States. Europe’s response to the terrorist attacks and threats must be decisive. The EPP Group views terrorism as a global threat to be tackled at the local, regional, national, European, and global levels. To strengthen our citizens’ security, to defend our fundamental values of freedom, democracy and human rights and to uphold international law, the EPP Group firmly believes in the pressing need to intensify EU anti-terrorist

measures. The Member States and the EU institutions worked together and delivered at European level: an agreement on Passenger Name Records (PNR) was reached and the EU Data Protection Directive was reviewed. We need EU data storage legislation, exchange of intelligence information between authorities and we need to stop the funding of terrorism. It is now time for action, not just words. The EPP Group actively supported the people of Greece throughout 2015. We made clear to the Greek Government, however, that only through constructive engagement with its European partners will growth and prosperity occur. Setting the agenda for putting Europe on the track to growth and jobs continues to be a top priority for the EPP Group. In June the European Parliament approved the “Juncker Plan” - or European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI). The EPP Group has supported the EFSI ever since European Commission President Jean-Claude JUNCKER presented it as his first priority. In addition, successfully concluding negotiations on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) is crucial for the EPP Group. A balanced TTIP will benefit European citizens, workers and businesses, reaffirm environmental standards and food security for consumers and promote Europe’s role in the world. The Group also welcomed the European Commission’s proposals in September for a Capital Markets Union to help finance small and medium-sized enterprises, and encourage new entrepreneurship. In June EPP Group Chairman Manfred WEBER met with Prime Minister David CAMERON in London to discuss the UK’s plans to renegotiate its relationship with the EU. The EPP Group champions integration in Europe and turning the dream of Europe’s founders – “ever closer union” – into reality. Europe can benefit from constructive discussion aimed at making the EU more efficient, but Britain should not prevent other Member States from pursuing further integration. Throughout 2015, the EPP Group mobilised to make the working of the Parliament more visible to the public. The plenary in Strasbourg became a debating platform for several important European

leaders, including German Chancellor Angela MERKEL. Through the appropriate media channels, the Group helped to ensure these events were widely reported on most major European news outlets.

Meetings of the EPP Group Bureau were convened in Toledo, Milan, Budapest, Katowice, and Prague this year. EPP Group Study Days were held in Madrid. As well as fostering deeper relations with Member States - and specifically EPP Member Parties - these events elaborated Group positions on selected issues of importance. Cooperation in the EPP political family has increased in policy work, but also in communications. The best example of this cooperation was the adoption of a common logo. The heart-shaped logo was launched at the EPP Congress in Madrid, and was met with enthusiasm. The EPP Group will continue to work hard to demonstrate Europe’s added value. Our mission centres on the promotion of a society founded on the Christian-Democratic values of freedom, responsibility and solidarity, based on a sustainable social market economy in a unified and peaceful continent. We are determined to push forward the policies required to achieve this objective, confident that the EU is essential in the daily lives of the citizens our Group strives to represent.

For more information please visit: www.eppgroup.eu

THE PRESIDENCYThe Presidency decides on the general political guidelines and presides over the Political Assembly. The Presidency is composed of the President, the Secretary General, 10 Vice Presidents, and the Treasurer. The Presidents of the European Commission, European Council, European Parliament, and the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (if they belong to the EPP), as well as the Chairman of the EPP Group in the European Parliament, are ex officio members of the EPP Presidency.

THE POLITICAL ASSEMBLYThe Political Assembly defines the positions of the Party between each Congress, decides on membership applications and finalises political guidelines. The Political Assembly also decides on the budget and safeguards the political presence of the EPP between Congress meetings.

The Political Assembly is composed of designated delegates from EPP memberand associate member parties, member associations and groups, and guests of observer member parties. The number of delegates for each party is linked to the election result in the last European election so that parties are weighted according to their strength. This allows the taking of decisions by majority. The Political Assembly meets at least four times per year.

THE CONGRESSThe Congress is the highest decision-making body of the EPP. It is composed of delegates from EPP member and associate member parties, member associations and parliamentary groups, as well as representatives from observ-er member parties. The EPP Congress meets statutorily once every three years and elects the EPP Presidency. The Congress, attended by EPP heads of state and government and party leaders, decides on the main policy documents and electoral programmes.

WORKING GROUPSThe Political Assembly defines the mandate of the Working Groups, which prepare the Party’s policy documents and recommendations. All EPP member and associate member parties, member associations and groups, as well as members of the EPP Group in the European Parliament, are able to participate in the Working Groups.

The EPP has three levels of decision-making: the Presidency, Political Assembly and Congress. The EPP heads of state and government and party leaders can also give policy recommendations, while the EPP Working Groups perform the preparatory political work.


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Decision-Making Bodies

ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 19

On 21-22 October, the EPP held its XXIII Congress in Madrid, Spain at the invitation of Prime Minister Mariano RAJOY and Partido Popular. Bringing together more than 3,000 leaders, delegates, guests and journalists, the Congress was the highlight of the year for the EPP family!

EPP Statutory Congress Madrid 2015

EPP CONGRESS MADRID 201520


Over the course of two days, the Congress featured speeches from the EPP’s EU and non-EU heads of state and government, deputy prime ministers, opposition and party leaders, as well as the leaders of the EU institutions. The plenary sessions also included a series of policy debates and other highlights, such as the presentation of the EPP Merit Award. The delegates discussed and voted on nine resolutions on various timely issues on the political agenda, as well as elected a new EPP Presidency.

Representatives from throughout the EPP family, including the groups and associations, were active through a number of side-line events and festivities. The EPP also held a Summit and a Political Assembly in Madrid.

ANNUAL REVIEW 201522

PROGRAM

Day One

21 October2015

The Congress delegates elected the EPP President. Of the 578 valid votes cast, 555 were in favour of President Joseph DAUL, who was re-elected to a second term at the helm of the party.

«Today, the EPP stands united and confirms its intention to make decisive progress towards a political union with a common fiscal and economic policy, as well as a common foreign policy, security and defence. Our political family has contributed significantly to the success of the European Union, and today we are again leading by example» — EPP President, Joseph DAUL

The first day of the Congress featured the speeches of the EPP’s non-EU heads of state and government, opposition and party leaders from EU and non-EU countries, and debates of the chairs of the EPP groups and EPP associations.


PROGRAM

Day One

21 October2015

The first day’s plenary session concluded with the EPP Merit Award being presented to former

European Council President Herman VAN ROMPUY and former European Commission President

José Manuel BARROSO in recognition of their extraordinary service to Europe and their

contributions to the EPP political family.

The EPP Congress adopted a comprehensive document titled “Protecting the Union and Promoting Our Values,” which focuses on foreign policy, security and defence. In addition, the delegates adopted a series of ordinary and emergency resolutions on a wide variety of topics: • “Protecting refugees - securing the EU’s external

borders - stepping up action against irregular migration” (Emergency resolution)

• “Reforms for the Future” (Emergency resolution)• “Territorial Integrity of States” (Emergency resolution)• “The Backsliding of Democracy in Georgia”

(Emergency resolution)• “Capital Markets Union – More Investments,

More Growth”(Ordinary resolution)• “Circular Economy Package 2.0 – Bending the Line”

(Ordinary resolution)• “TTIP: An Opportunity for Europe”

(Ordinary resolution)• “Digital Europe 2.0 - Moving Towards

a Digital Society” (Ordinary resolution)• “Achieving Food Security while Combatting

Climate Change – The Need for a Global Commitment to Ensure Sustainable Development” (Ordinary resolution)


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In light of the ongoing migration crisis, the plenary session featured a high-level panel debate titled “Migration: solutions to manage, ideas to integrate.”

PROGRAM

Day Two

22 October2015

The culmination of the Congress featured the unveiling of the EPP’s brand-new logo, which is also shared by the EPP Group in the European Parliament and other groups and associations of the EPP family! In keeping with the new logo, the EPP also launched a new website at www.epp.eu

The plenary session on the final dayfeatured the addresses of the EPP’sEU heads of state and government, deputy prime ministers, and the leaders in the EU institutions – European Council President Donald TUSK, European Commission President Jean-Claude JUNCKER, and EPP Group Chairman Manfred WEBER – as well as party leaders.


PROGRAM

Day Two

22 October2015

Following the election of EPP President Joseph DAUL the day before, on the second day the delegates elected the EPP Secretary General Antonio LÓPEZ-ISTÚRIZ (who had been nominated by the President), as well as the ten EPP Vice-Presidents and the Treasurer.

«I am proud to be here in Madrid with the entire family of the European People’s Party and I thank them for their trust and confidence. The challenges confronting us are immense, but I know the EPP will continue to lead the way in overcoming them. We will bring Europe forward» — EPP Secretary General, Antonio LÓPEZ-ISTÚRIZ

Vice-Presidents (in order of the number of votes received)• David McALLISTER, CDU, Germany• Johannes HAHN, ÖVP, Austria• Jyrki KATAINEN, Kokoomus, Finland (YEPP)• Antonio TAJANI, Forza Italia, Italy• Marianne THYSSEN, CD&V, Belgium• Jacek SARYUSZ-WOLSKI, Civic Platform, Poland• Kinga GÁL, FIDESZ, Hungary• Dara MURPHY, Fine Gael, Ireland• Paulo RANGEL, PSD, Portugal• Corien WORTMANN-KOOL, CDA, Netherlands

TreasurerChristian SCHMIDT, CSU, Germany



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22-23 JANUARY 2015 BRUSSELSFollowing the terrorist attacks in Paris in January, the EPP Political Assembly held an in-depth discussion and approved a resolution on freedom and security in Europe. The resolution, titled “Protecting freedom and ensuring security”, honoured the victims of the attacks and reaffirmed the EPP’s commitment to the freedom of expression, to improve security in Europe and to protect our core values. The Political Assembly also approved a resolution concerning the Holocaust, which calls on the EU institutions and Member States to ensure that the memory of the victims will always be preserved and to condemn those who deny the Holocaust as a historical fact. In addition, the delegates adopted a resolution highlighting the crucial role of the family in society. The Political Assembly observed a moment of silence in memory of Leo TINDEMANS, the late EPP Honorary President and former Prime Minister of Belgium, who passed away in December 2014.

2-3 MARCH 2015 BRUSSELSAt the March Political Assembly, the participants focused on the situation in Greece, the developments in Russia and Ukraine, as well as approved a policy paper and two resolutions. In the policy paper “Towards smarter regulation and cutting red tape in the EU”, the EPP underlined the importance of reducing bureaucratic procedures in order to stimulate the economy. In the resolution “Bringing Solutions to the Skills Gap in Europe”, the delegates called on the European Commission and Member States to make education a priority area, while also promoting cross-border mobility among young people. Another resolution, titled “The Armenian Genocide and European Values” condemned the genocidal acts against the Armenian people and called for restoring historical justice in memory of the victims. Finally, the Political Assembly adopted an emergency resolution on the recent murder of prominent Russian opposition leader Boris NEMTSOV, which called for an international investigation and increased sanctions against Russia.

1-2 JUNE 2015OSLOThe Political Assembly held a special meeting in Oslo, Norway at the invitation of EPP Associate Member party Høyre and Prime Minister Erna SOLBERG. The delegates voted to accept the Bulgaria of the Citizens Movement, which was granted full membership status in the EPP. The party’s Chairwoman, Meglena KUNEVA, who is the Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister, attended the meeting. The Political Assembly adopted two resolutions. The first offered solutions for “Students at Risk” and asked the European Parliament to support these students through the Erasmus+ programme. The second resolution, on “Personal insolvency and the protection of families against bankruptcy”, recommended sharing best practices for insolvency arrangements for families encountering financial difficulties.

The assembly debated the future of the digital economy and relations with Russia. In the EPP’s view, the competitiveness of Europe depends on a strong Digital Single Market, with a focus on e-skills. Concerning the difficult political situation in Russia, Vladimir MILOV, a Russian opposition leader from the Democratic Choice Party, spoke at the meeting. This marked the start of a long-term dialogue between the EPP and the democratic opposition in Russia.

1-2 SEPTEMBER 2015 BRUSSELSThe September Political Assembly focused on the migration crisis, as well as the preparations for the EPP 2015 Statutory Congress in Madrid. Regarding the migration situation, the representatives of the member parties agreed that only a common European response can address a crisis of such magnitude. The Political Assembly voted to upgrade the membership status of two current EPP parties, the Democratic Party (DP) of Albania and the Alliance of Vojvodina Hungarians (VMSZ) of Serbia. Both parties, which had previously been observer members, are now associate member of the EPP.

21 OCTOBER 2015 MADRID – EPP CONGRESSA Political Assembly was held in Madrid on the first day of the EPP Congress. The main purpose of this gathering was to prepare the ensuing Congress, with special attention being paid to the delegates’ views on the emergency resolution on migration “Protecting refugees – securing the EU’s external borders – stepping up action against irregular migration”, as well as the Congress document “Protecting the Union and Promoting our Values”, which focused in large part on security and defence.

After hearing from several candidates, the Political Assembly voted to hold its 2016 external meeting in Luxembourg. The event will be hosted by the party member CSV which will take place on 30-31 May 2016. The meeting will also coincide with the 40th anniversary of the founding of the EPP.

10-11 DECEMBER 2015BRUSSELSAfter the terrorist attacks in Paris in November 2015, the Political Assembly observed a minute of silence in memory of the victims who lost their lives in the French capital as well as in terrorist attacks in other cities around the world. The discussions focused on security, notably the adoption in the European Parliament of the Passenger Name Record, proposed and support-ed by the EPP, as a key instrument to ensure the safety of the European people.

The delegates of the EPP Political Assembly unanimously re-elected Christian KREMER and Luc VANDEPUTTE as Deputy Secretary Generals. The Political Assembly also approved the EPP’s 2016 budget and membership fees.

Political Assembly Highlights



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Committee of the Regions

ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

For more information please visit: www.epp.cor.europa.eu

2015 was a year full of promise and challenges alike for Europe’s regions and cities. Following the re-election as President of the EPP Group in the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), Michael SCHNEIDER continued to lead the largest political group in the EU’s political assembly of local and regional representatives in its work to boost jobs, growth and regional investment and make the most of EU policies on the ground. The EPP Group in CoR works together with President Markku MARKKULA, who was elected President of the CoR in February 2015 and who also belongs to the EPP family. Working alongside the CoR President, the Group pledged to support societal and industrial innovations, enhance cooperation with other EU institutions and to give a stronger voice to the members and political families within the CoR.

During the EPP Statutory Congress in Madrid, on 21 October, the EPP Group in the European Committee of the Regions gathered 300 representatives of local and regional governments in support of the Investment Plan for Europe. The main conclusion of this meeting was the need to boost synergies between the Investment Plan for Europe and existing financial instruments, such as structural funds. Local and regional authorities also expressed their expectation that financing opportunities for small-scale projects and clusters will be given adequate financial support so they may contribute to creating growth and jobs in local communities. The EPP Group was delighted to present these findings to EPP President Joseph DAUL.

Other priorities for the EPP Group in the CoR this year included a push for innovation in the food and energy sectors as well as easier access to investment for innovative food and energy SMEs during the Universal EXPO in Milan. In cooperation with the European Democrat Students, the EPP Group raised the profile of digital and entrepreneurial skills at the EU level through a dedicated study visit for young people in Brussels. Rounding off the year, a seminar at the OPEN DAYS: European Week of Regions and

Cities was the chance to look at smart cities and the urban agenda.

Key opinions led by the EPP Group, including the Digital Single Market, the Energy Union and the negotiations on the Partnership Agreements and Operational Programmes, showed that while local and regional authorities were consulted in most cases, their involvement did not amount to full partnership and more can be done for Europe to benefit from their experience. The EPP Group also played a decisive role in the setting up of a Task Force for Ukraine. Last but not least, 2015 was a chance to welcome guest speakers to the EPP Group meetings and strengthen cooperation with the wider EPP family. Guests included EPP Group Chairman in the European Parliament Manfred WEBER, WMCES President Mikulás DZURINDA and EPP Spokesman and MEP Siegfried MUREŞAN.

PRESIDENT OF THE EPP/COR MICHAEL SCHNEIDER AND COR PRESIDENT MARKKU MARKKULA

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Council of Europe / OSCE / NATO / Euronest

ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

EPP IN THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY OF THE COUNCIL OF EUROPEThe EPP is committed to its involvement in the Council of Europe, an organization that promotes the principles

of the rule of law, the values of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The EPP Group in the Parliamentary

Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) is chaired by Pedro AGRAMUNT (PP, Spain).

Over the course of this year, the EPP-CD Group also elected two new members of the Bureau, for a total of 12

Vice-Presidents.

During 2015, Chairman Pedro AGRAMUNT, along with the different EPP and like-minded members, successfully

contributed to the various electoral missions of the PACE to Azerbaijan, Turkey, Ukraine, Belarus and Kyrgyzstan,

among other activities. Through their actions within the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly and in their

national parliaments, more than 200 members of the Group of the European People’s Party (EPP-CD Group) work

to promote respect for the principle of subsidiarity and local autonomy, as well as the defense of national, social and

other minorities. They have committed themselves to consolidating and stabilizing freedom and democracy, human

rights, peace, prosperity, solidarity and social cohesion throughout the European continent and the world.

EPP IN THE EURONEST PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLYThe EPP Vice-President and Chairman of the EPP EuroNest Group, Jacek SARYUSZ-WOLSKI together with other

members of the European Parliament, and members of national parliaments of the Eastern Partnership (EaP)

countries met for the Fourth Ordinary Session of the EuroNest Parliamentary Assembly in Yerevan, Armenia from

16-18 March. Resolutions on the Armenian Genocide, the annexation of Crimea, energy policy, Russian aggression,

relations with Belarus and a message for the next EaP summit in Riga were among the issues on the table.

EPP IN THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY OF NATOThe EPP and Associated Group in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, led by its President Karl LAMERS (CDU,

Germany) continued to coordinate the work in seeking a common answer to the different questions and issues

related to the NATO partners. The EPP defended its policies and strengthened its presence in the different working

committees through a close agreement with the other political groups at the annual meeting in Stavanger, Norway,

where Michael TURNER (Republican, USA) was nominated as President of the Parliamentary Assembly. For 60 years,

the assembly has been meeting several times per year in order to tackle the day-to-day challenges of the NATO

member states. In 2015, special attention was paid to the war on terrorism, the Minsk Agreement, the struggle in Syria,

the refugee crisis and relations with Russia.

EPP IN THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY OF THE OSCEIn 2015, the Parliamentary Assembly in the OSCE-PA re-elected Ilkka KANERVA (KOK, Finland) as Chairman

for a second term during the annual meeting in Helsinki (Finland). Moreover, EPP President Joseph DAUL

attended the Parliamentary Assembly, where he had the opportunity to meet the parliamentarians and have

several high-level bilateral meetings. In addition, the Helsinki Act celebrated its 40th anniversary, with the

parliamentarians strengthening their commitment to the values embodied in this act. Finally, the EPP was also

present during the fall meeting in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, where the group approved resolutions on topics

as Ukraine and democracy.

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Working Groups / EventsANNUAL REVIEW 2015

WORKING GROUP 1 EPP Working Group 1, titled “European Policies”, was co-chaired in 2015 by EPP President Joseph DAUL and EPP Vice President Peter HINTZE (CDU, Germany). The main focus of the meetings was to prepare the Congress document “Protecting the Union and Promoting our Values” for the EPP Congress in Madrid in October 2015. This document addresses the diverse challenges at the doorstep of Europe, which make clear that a separation between internal and external threats no longer exists.

These challenges and threats exist in Europe’s eastern and southern neighbourhoods. The wars in Ukraine, Syria and Libya, the Russian aggression, as well as migration flows, failed states and terrorism are just a few examples. This is the reason the Europeans have to be confident in defending and strengthening our common European values, also outside of Europe, as outlined in the document. Moreover, the resolution and amendment committee ahead of the Congress were carried out within the framework of Working Group 1.

Working Groups are the backbone of the EPP’s political work, where representatives from the EPP member parties develop common positions and strategies on major policy areas and submit specific recommendations to the Political Assembly for final approval.

A Working Group can also be given a specific mandate for preparatory work for EPP Summits and EPP Congresses, as well as for organising conferences, roundtable discussions and other important events.

WORKING GROUP 2 In 2015, EPP Working Group 2, titled “Economic and Social Policy”, which focuses on economic and social policy, was co-chaired by European Commissioner and EPP Vice-President Johannes HAHN (ÖVP, Austria) and Gunnar HÖKMARK MEP (MOD, Sweden).

The Working Group presented two resolutions to the Congress in Madrid. The first resolution on the Circular Economy called on the European Commission to prioritise market mechanisms over regulation in the new Circular Economy package. The second resolution on the Capital Markets Union emphasized the need to build the Capital Markets Union from an entrepreneur’s perspective in order to boost investment and growth and to create jobs in Europe.

The Working Group also put forward new resolutions to the Political Assembly. One of the proposals concentrated on smart regulation emphasizing the need to reduce administrative burdens and to cut red tape. Another resolution focused on the Digital Single Market and offered an array of proposals on how to create and achieve a truly European Digital Single Market.

WORKING GROUP 3 Working Group 3 titled, “EPP Membership”, chaired by EPP Vice-President Corien WORTMANN-KOOL (CDA, Netherlands), promotes and incorporates new parties that are seeking to join the EPP as full, associate or observer members. Following applications from two Ukrainian political parties, “Petro Poroshenko Block Solidarnist” and “People’s Front”, the Working Group organised a fact-finding mission to Ukraine in March in order to review and assess the parties, as well as to learn about the important political developments since the presidential and parliamentary elections in 2014.

In addition to issues of party membership, Working Group 3 organises study visits in order to deepen the EPP’s knowledge of the political situations in various countries. During the study visit to Serbia in April, the delegation learned about major political, economic and social developments through discussions with Prime Minister Aleksander VUČIĆ, SNS officials, VMSZ politicians, high-ranking diplomats, the media and NGO representatives. In addition, following the recommendations of Working Group 3 on 11 May 2015, the “Bulgaria of Citizens Movement” party was accepted as a full member at the Political Assembly held in June 2015. Finally, the Working Group of 1 September discussed the status of the “Alliance of the Vojvodina Hungarians” (VMSZ) from Serbia and “Democratic Party of Albania” (DPA), which led to the upgrading of both observer member parties to the associate member status.

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

EPP HIGH-LEVEL GROUP ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPEIn 2015 the EPP High-Level Group on the Future of Europe was re-launched under the leadership of Herman VAN ROMPUY, the first permanent President of the European Council, and Elmar BROK MEP, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs in the European Parliament. The main objective of this group is to contribute to the economic and political debate and to openly address the challenges we face: a major refugee and immigration crisis, enormous securityconcerns, a lack of growth and job creation,high unemployment and the rising popularityof anti-European extremist political forces. Due to present challenges, the EPP must define and put forward its vision for the next two decades in order to maintain the peace and prosperity the European continent has enjoyed for the past sixty years.

CAMPAIGN MANAGERS MEETINGEvery year the EPP organises Campaign Managers Meetings in which campaign managers and experts from EPP member parties review national and regional election campaigns. These meetings allow for exchange of experiences and to scrutinise current trends in modern campaigning. The 2015 meeting was held in Warsaw, Poland, with the EPP campaign managers analysing recent elections in Finland, Croatia, Romania and the UK. The participants also discussed the upcoming elections with a major focus on Poland. Two external experts delivered a presentation about how social media can reach voters, and also the influence of populist parties on society in Europe.

Working Groups / Events

31ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 WORKING GROUPS / EVENTS

EPP EXPERT GROUP ON DIGITAL EUROPEThe EPP Expert Group on Digital Europe, co-chaired by Commissioner Carlos MOEDAS and MEP Michal BONI, was established in 2015 to work on the development of the EPP’s digital policy framework. Successful meetings were held in Brussels with experts and specialists with academic and business backgrounds, as well as industry and consumer representatives, to discuss the digital challenges for European society and how Europe can embrace the digital transformation. Topics such as cyber security, innovation through big data, cloud computing and the internet of things, better regulation as well as the importance of skills and education for citizens and workers in the online world, were addressed. For the EPP Congress in Madrid, the group drafted a resolution titled “Digital Europe 2.0 – Moving Towards a Digital Society”, which underlines the challenges and opportunities ahead for Europe in this era of great technological change, covering the need for renewedindustry and enterprise, enhancing healthcare with eHealth, smart cities, public-sector innovation and digitalisation, digital literacy, education and inclusion, digital infrastructure and ensuring security and privacy online.

SAINT GÉRY DIALOGUEIn 2015, the EPP continued its tradition of organising the Saint Géry Dialogue, which is an annual forum held in the Brussels city centre in which key decision makers and experts discuss topics in economic policy. The fifth Saint Géry Dialogue was held on 22 January with the title “Helping SMEs and Start-Ups to Grow and Prosper – From Credit Financing to Equity Financing” and featured high-level speakers including the former President of the European Council Herman VAN ROMPUY, the Chairman of the EPP Group in the European Parliament Manfred WEBER, MEP and EPP Spokesman Siegfried MURESAN, entrepreneur and business angel Taneli TIKKA, Centre for European Policy Studies Director Daniel GROS and Invest Europe Public Affairs Director Michael COLLINS. EPP President Joseph DAUL delivered an opening speech and EPP Secretary General Antonio LÓPEZ-ISTÚRIZ made closing remarks.

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Foreign AffairsANNUAL REVIEW 2015

WESTERN BALKANS The Western Balkan countries are a top priority for the EPP. Bearing in mind that EU enlargement has been one of the most successful European policies, the EPP is convinced about the importance of stabilising the continent by engaging more with the Western Balkan region. Even if no further enlargement will take place in the next five years, the EPP considers that a European perspective should be kept for the Western Balkan countries in order to encourage reforms and progress in the region. The EPP actively supported its member parties and political partners in the Western Balkans, which have been making remarkable efforts to reinforce European values and principles in their home countries while working on the necessary reforms. During the course of 2015, the EPP closely followed and supported the normalisation of relations between Kosovo and Serbia. EPP officials kept in close contact with the team of Prime Minister Isa MUSTAFA, the chairman of our member party LDK. The EPP also contributed several statements of support for Kosovo on the difficult path towards EU integration and urged a peaceful and constructive political process in the Kosovo Parliament. Following the EPP Working Group 3 study visit to Serbia in April 2015, and discussions in Working Group 3 in September, the Prime Minister of Serbia and President of the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), Aleksander VUČIĆ, was invited as a special guest to the enlarged EPP Summit and Congress in Madrid. SPP is a candidate to become an EPP member. In October 2015, the EPP welcomed a group of newly elected members of different parliaments from Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) to the EPP headquarters, where discussions were held on the implementation of the joint declaration of the EPP-affiliated parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina on “European Values, Identity, the Social Market Economy and the Rule of Law”, which was signed in Sarajevo in 2014 under the leadership of EPP President Joseph DAUL.

The EPP was actively involved in reinforcing the ties with its member parties and partners by building on the 2014 declaration and supporting BiH on its continued path towards EU integration. To that effect, the EPP President has welcomed the BiH Presidents at the party headquarters.

The EPP also offered support to the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) in order to reach the agreements to end the political stalemate between the ruling coalition, headed by Prime Minister Nikola GRUEVSKI and the opposition parties, leading to the organisation of an interim government and snap elections in April 2016. Finally, the EPP upgraded the status of two member parties from the Western Balkans in 2015. The Democratic Party of Albania (DPA) and Alliance of Hungarians in Vojvodina (VMSZ) of Serbia were upgraded from observer members to associate members at the Political Assembly in September.

EUROPEAN NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICY (ENP)The European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) constitutes one of the key pillars of the EPP’s external relations. In line with the new revision of the ENP adopted by the European Commission in November 2015, the EPP has continued to develop a strong and comprehensive strategy towards the EU’s neighbouring countries in order to achieve more stable, democratic and prosperous states. In 2015, the EPP organised several official visits, held events and drafted and adopted documents aimed at strengthening the political dimension of the European Neighbourhood Policy.

EASTERN PARTNERSHIPThe Eastern Partnership (EaP) remains a paramount priority for the EPP. However, recent developments in Eastern Europe have seriously challenged the very concept of the EaP such as the Russian war against Ukraine and its interference in other states, which has seriously undermined the EU and Eastern Partnership states’ common efforts to extend the area of prosperity, stability and security to the entire region. In 2015, the EPP continued its efforts to promote the development of this process. However, with the changing political landscape, the entire ENP in its current form is insufficient to meet all the challenges. Therefore, the EPP strongly supports the new ENP proposal put forward by EU Commissioner Johannes HAHN at the end of 2015.

In April 2015, EPP President Joseph DAUL commemorated the Armenian genocide during his two-day visit to Yerevan. The President met the leadership of the country and of the EPP member parties as well as representatives of civil society. He also gave a speech on EU-Armenia relations at the French University of Yerevan. Among the main issues discussed were the political, economic and security situations in Armenia, as well as EU-Armenia relations and the preparation of the Riga Eastern Partnership Summit.

In May 2015, the EPP President Joseph DAUL chaired the EPP Eastern Partnership Leaders’ Meeting in Riga, which was organised alongside the 4th EU Eastern Partnership Summit. During this meeting a joint declaration was adopted, titled “Meet Ambitions and Consolidate Partnerships”, which reinforces the EaP policy and enriches it with the principles of differentiation, conditionality, joint ownership, joint responsibility, solidarity, and the “more for more” approach. The EPP delivered in Riga a strong message of support for the associated states–Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia–which have made the European integration agenda the main objective of their foreign policy. These countries pay a high price for their EU ambitions, particularly with their sovereignty and security. Therefore, the EPP supports a European perspective for Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia and encourages their governments to speed up the necessary reform processes and to further strengthen their commitments to our shared values and principles.

Following the new political developments in Ukraine and considering the new EPP membership applications from the political parties

33ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Solidarnist and People’s Front, the EPP organised in April a fact-finding mission to Kiev. During this mission the EPP delegation had an opportunity to meet all the main political players, its partners and representatives of media, civil society and international organisations. Thereafter, discussions on Ukrainian political parties took place at a meeting of EPP Working Group 3 and at the EPP Political Assembly. During the course of the year the EPP constantly supported its partners in Ukraine and held numerous meetings with leading Ukrainian politicians.

It is with great concern that the EPP has also been closely observing the developments in Belarus, especially the latest Presidential elections in October 2015. The EPP has supported its member parties and partners in promoting democratic values and principles as well as the rule of law and respect for human rights. In November, the EPP President Joseph DAUL met the leaders of the Belarusian opposition, along with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), in order to asses and discuss the latest political developments and the upcoming parliamentary elections in 2016. As a result, the leaders of the partner parties Belarus Popular Front, United Civil Party, Christian Democrats and the Union for Freedom signed a declaration about their intention to work together for the parliamentary elections in 2016 and the next presidential elections in 2020.

The EPP also remained concerned about the developments in Georgia. After the signing of the EU-Georgia Association Agreement, the current government has continued to proceed with undemocratic practices while harassing UNM members, suppressing the freedom of media, especially events related to Rustavi 2 channel, endangering the EU integration course of the country. In order to support our partners the EPP has put forward a resolution and a number of press releases condemning the current authorities and calling for democratic developments in Georgia.

The EPP has also followed the intense developments in Moldova and provided political support for the EPP member party, PLDM.

MEDITERRANEAN, NORTHERN AFRICA AND THE MIDDLE EAST (MENA)In 2015, the EPP continued to strengthen its cooperation with political partners in the different countries of the Mediterranean basin in the framework of a renewed strategy towards the Southern Neighbourhood dimension and the MENA region. In June, an EPP delegation took part in a seminar on the revision of the European Neighbourhood Policy from the Maghreb perspective, which was organised by the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung in Tunisia. This seminar gathered political and civil society experts from Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria and aimed to enhance and strengthen the relations of the EU with its southern neighbours in view of the revision of the ENP. Over the course of 2015, the EPP welcomed different delegations of political leaders and members of parliament from Tunisia, Morocco, the Regional Government of Kurdistan, Kenya, and other places. In November, EPP Secretary General Antonio LÓPEZ-ISTÚRIZ participated in the Second Annual “Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate” in the United Arab Emirates. This strategic forum brought together leading policy and opinion makers to discuss and assess critical challenges in the Middle East.

At the EPP Statutory Congress in Madrid in October, the delegates adopted new statutes that open the door to new political parties belonging to member states of the Union for the Mediterranean to adhere to the EPP under a new membership category defined as “EPP Partners”. In the framework of the Congress, the EPP, in cooperation with the European Ideas Network (EIN), organised a strategic discussion titled “Mediterranean Stability: Security, Migration and Cooperation”, where the participants addressed and analysed the different challenges currently facing the Mediterranean neighbourhood and the need to have closer cooperation among the diverse regional stakeholders in putting forward a concerted, comprehensive response and a long-term strategy to tackle these challenges.

TRANSATLANTIC RELATIONS The EPP calls for a strong and enduring partnership with the United States as a cornerstone of the EU’s external policy, as stated in the EPP Platform adopted at the 2012 EPP Congress in Bucharest. The EPP believes that Europe and the US should constantly seeks ways to work together, based on our shared values, in order to tackle global challenges.

In May 2015, the EPP launched a new Ministerial Meeting in light of the ongoing negotiations of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) with the United States. The EPP is committed to a comprehensive TTIP agreement that is fair for Europe and which benefits European citizens, consumers and companies. The meeting of EPP trade ministers provides an opportunity for the EPP to coordinate and develop common positions of our political family on issues within the TTIP negotiations and the EU’s broader trade agenda.

EPP Secretary General Antonio LÓPEZ-ISTÚRIZ also held a series of meetings in Washington, DC with leading members of Congress and senior government officials on these topics. He also participated in the sixth Transatlantic Think Tank Conference organised by the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, together with the International Republican Institute and the Hudson Institute.

In July, EPP Secretary General Antonio LÓPEZ-ISTÚRIZ was re-elected as Executive Secretary of the Centrist Democrat International (CDI) at the Leaders Meeting in Mexico City. The CDI thanked outgoing President Pier Ferdinando CASINI for his successful mandate and welcomed the new CDI President Andres PASTRANA, former President of Colombia. The CDI family passed a document on New World Challenges and discussed issues like climate change, terrorism and free trade.

In addition to the relationship with the United States, the EPP is committed to boosting ties with Latin America. In February, the EPP Secretary General met with a delegation of representatives of the Colombian Political Party Centro Democrático, which is the party of the former President of Colombia, Álvaro URIBE. In September, the EPP hosted a group of 30 young political activists and students from across Latin America who met with party officials to learn more about the EU.

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CommunicationsANNUAL REVIEW 2015

Through its Press and Communications Department, the EPP promotes the ideas and values of our political family, informs the public about the party’s activities, and makes direct contact with European and national media.

The Press Department of the EPP prepares and oversees the EPP press and external communication strategy in line with the party’s priorities and the European agenda. It manages daily media enquiries, communicates and promotes the EPP’s policies and positions on different subjects through press releases, interviews, articles, and op-eds. The Press Department also organises press conferences and press briefings prior to and during major EPP events, like the congress, summits, or the European elections. For example, at least 700 journalists attended the EPP Congress in Madrid and the EPP press releases reach out to more than a thousand journalists.

Moreover, the Press Department liaises with national and international correspondents, as well as monitors

Get Social with us!

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“ THE EPP BELIEVES IN OPENNESS AND TRANSPARENCY AND STRIVES TO PROVIDE THE EUROPEAN CITIZENS WITH AS MUCH INFORMATION AS POSSIBLE ABOUT THE WORK OF THE PARTY. ”

current affairs and the party’s coverage in the media. This work is carried out in close cooperation with our counterparts in our member parties and the EU institutions in order to streamline our messaging, receive the best exposure and continue to make the case to EU citizens that they should support us.

35ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 COMMUNICATIONS

Twitter account

83,100 Followers

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255,799 Likes

Flickr account

7,091,000 Photo views

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INTERNAL COMMUNICATION AND MARKETINGDuring its first year of activities, the Internal Communication and Marketing Department of the EPP delivered different services to its stakeholders. In addition to further expanding the EPP’s social media presence, the department implemented the EPP “Inside News” monthly newsletter in order to keep the members of the EPP family updated on the activities of the wider party. The department also ensures that the EPP’s core messages and values are communicated to our stakeholders, especially during key events such as the EPP Congress in Madrid. For example, the EPP launched a Congress App which provided updates and news throughout the event. The Congress was also the occasion for the launch of the new EPP website, which has received a new look to reflect the new visual identity of the EPP.

Moreover, the department has successfully cooperated and jointly adopted a common logo with the EPP Group in the European Parliament, which will be used for all members of the EPP family, including groups and associations.2015 has marked a fruitful first year of activities for the department, with new initiatives that will lead us towards 2016 with new ideas while closely following developments in communication and marketing tools.

SOCIAL NETWORKS The EPP is very active on all major social networks and outpaces our political competitors in every category!

SOCIAL NETWORKS The EPP is very active on all major social

networks and outpaces our political competitors in every category!

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

Structure and Resources

PUBLIC FUNDINGThe European Parliament budget for 2015 set aside 28.3 million euro for party funding. 15% of the budget is distributed among the parties in equal shares, while 85% is distributed on the basis of the number of seats in the European Parliament held by each party. Fifteen European political parties were recognised in 2015 and received funding from the European Parliament (in millions of euros):

EUROPEAN PEOPLE’S PARTY (EPP) - 9.4

PARTY OF EUROPEAN SOCIALISTS (PES) - 6.5

EUROPEAN LIBERAL DEMOCRAT AND REFORM PARTY (ELDR) - 2.0

EUROPEAN GREEN PARTY (EGP) - 1.7

ALLIANCE OF EUROPEAN CONSERVATIVES AND REFORMISTS (AECR) - 1.9

PARTY OF THE EUROPEAN LEFT (EL) - 1.6

ALLIANCE FOR DIRECT DEMOCRACY IN EUROPE (ADDE) - 1.2

MOUVEMENT POUR UNE EUROPE DES NATIONS ET DES LIBERTÉS (MENL) - 1.1

EUROPEAN DEMOCRATIC PARTY (EDP) - 0.6

EUROPEAN FREE ALLIANCE (EFA) - 0.7

EU DEMOCRATS (EUD) - 0.4

EUROPEAN CHRISTIAN POLITICAL MOVEMENT (ECPM) - 0.4

EUROPEAN ALLIANCE FOR FREEDOM (EAF) - 0.4

EUROPEAN ALLIANCE OF NAT. MOVEMENTS (AEMN) - 0.3

MOVEMENT FOR EUROPE OF LIBERTIES & DEMOCRACY (MELD) - 0.4

The European Parliament funds constitute two-thirds of the EPP’s income. The rest of the income is generated through membership fees. The membership fees of the ordinary member parties are calculated on the basis of the political strength of the party and the number of MEPs. The membership fees of the associate and observer member parties is calculated by the Political Assembly on the basis of the votes obtained by these parties during their last national elections. Seventy percent of the 2015 membership fees have been settled before 31 December 2015. The accounts of all European political parties are audited by a single auditor (Ernst & Young) appointed by the European Parliament.

EPP Deputy Secretary General Luc Vandeputte

Ingo Friedrich, who served as EPP Treasurer until October 2015

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Headquarters / Internship Programme

ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

EPP HEADQUARTERS: THE BRUSSELS MEETING POINT OF THE EPP FAMILY

The EPP Headquarters are the true Brussels meeting point for everyone who is linked to the large family of the European People’s Party family. The meeting rooms and attractive lounge hosted numerous Working Groups, conferences, seminars, Presidency and Ministerial meetings.

Almost daily the EPP HQ welcomes visitors from our member parties and high-level delegations from all over the globe. All of them are charmed by the modern, efficient and inviting look and feel of our premises.

In addition to the EPP staff, the building also hosts several of the EPP member associations, including YEPP, EDS and EUCDW, the Centrist Democrat International, and the Forum for European Studies.

EPP INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME 2015 The EPP internship programme is focused on immersing young graduates in the short-term and long-term political planning and activities of the party: organising meetings and conferences, preparing reports and press releases, editing publications, communicating with member parties, EPP Groups, associations and other affiliated organisations, and liaising with officials from the European institutions.

THE 2015 INTERNS

Giuliano EPIS Italy

Benjamin FEYEN Germany

Constance REYTER Belgium

Jasmin LADURNER Italy

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Member AssociationsANNUAL REVIEW 2015

YEPPYEPP is the youth branch of the European People’s Party, with 60 member organisations in 40 countries. In 2015, YEPP started the year with its first Council meeting focused on promoting the European Single Market. In May, YEPP held elections at its 10th Congress in Porto, Portugal, electing a new board for the 2015-2017 mandate. In July, YEPP organised its annual summer school in Barcelona, where members discussed how to build tomorrow’s digital society. The second half of the year started with a Council meeting in Brussels titled “Youth. Jobs. Internet”, while on 10 November, 25 YEPP members took part in the 2nd Transatlantic Youth Summit in Washington, DC, along with 25 young American leaders, to discuss foreign policy, the economy and youth. 2015 ended with the last YEPP Council meeting in December in Kyiv, Ukraine commemorating two years since the Euromaidan revolution.

Konstantinos KYRANAKIS PRESIDENT

Andrea VODANOVIĆSECRETARY GENERAL

YEPP - Activities in 2015.• 5– 8 March: YEPP Council Meeting “Connecting

the Dots of the Single Market”, Zagreb, Croatia• 17–19 April: YEPP Working Day “Reshaping youth

politics” in Warsaw, Poland• 14–17 May: YEPP Congress “A Stronger Europe

in a Changing World” in Porto, Portugal • 20 June: Board Meeting, Athens, Greece• 2-5 July: YEPP Summer School titled “Building

Tomorrow’s Digital Society”, Barcelona, Spain • 24-27 September: YEPP Council Meeting “Youth.

Jobs. Internet.”, Brussels, Belgium • 10 November: Transatlantic Youth Summit

focusing on Foreign Policy, Economy, Youth, Washington DC, USA

• 3-6 December: Council Meeting “EuroMaidan: two years later” in Kyiv, Ukraine

ESUWith more than one million members in 24 countries, the ESU is the largest political organisation of senior citizens in Europe. The ESU is dedicated to advancing the rights of European senior citizens and promoting issues such as the role of the elderly in ageing societies, pension systems, long-term care, and intergenerational solidarity. This year, the ESU held its Summer Academy in Vienna and issued recommendations on security, protection and social cohesion. 2015 also marked the 20th anniversary of the organisation. On this occasion, the ESU presented in the Committee of Regions in Brussels its project “Tell us your story”, a video based on the histories of seniors, in order to make the lives and engagements of seniors more visible, to strengthen their self-confidence and to stimulate active citizen-ship. On 1 October, ESU supported the International Day of Older Persons, with an event and message by ESU President An HERMANS.

An HERMANS PRESIDENT

Guido DUMONSECRETARY GENERAL

ESU - Activities in 2015.• 24 March and 26 December: Working Breakfast:

“Friends of ESU”, hosted by Heinz K. Becker MEP, Brussels, Belgium

• 3-5 July: ESU Summer Academy: “Citizens’ Security in the European Union”, Vienna, Austria

• 11-12 September: Regional Conference: “Lifelong Learning and Being Active”, Münster, Germany

• 1 October: Food4Thought Event: Europe’s Senior Voters: Long Term Implications and Challenges for the Centre Right”, Brussels, Belgium

• 17-19 October: Regional Conference “Elderly Abuse and Exploitation”, Larnaca, Cyprus

• 21 October: Panel: “Older Persons in Decision Making and Equal Opportunities”, Madrid, Spain

• 6 November: Celebration of 20th anniversary of ESU: “Continuing on the road towards a value-driven Europe”, Brussels, Belgium

EPP WOMENEPP Women (EPPW) brings together 56 women organisations from EPP member parties in both EU and non-EU countries. The organisation is dedicated to advancing women’s political emancipation throughout Europe and the promotion of politically relevant women-related issues. The organisation also focuses on the role of women in fostering democracy and improving the rule of law in EU countries and beyond. For EPP Women, the main topics of 2015 were: “The role of women in strengthening democracy, 1989 – 2015”, “Political Developments since the Arab Spring”, “Women and the Digital Agenda” and “Asylum and Refugee Policy”. At the EPPW 2015 Congress in Munich, President Doris PACK, Treasurer Ria OOMEN-RUIJTEN and Secretary General Hillie VAN DE STREEK were re-elected for the period 2015 - 2018. The newly elected/re-elected Vice- Presi-dents of EPP Women for 2015-2018 are: Lidia BIALEK, Mariya GABRIEL, Maren MALTHE-SORENSSEN, Rozália BIRÓ, Dubravka ŠUICA and Laura de Esteban MARTÍN.

Doris PACK PRESIDENT

Hillie VAN DE STREEK SECRETARY GENERAL

EPPW - Activities in 2015.• 22 January: Executive Board meeting, Brussels,

Belgium• 16-17 April: EPP Women Colloque, “The role of

women in strengthening democracy 1989-2015” and “Political Developments since the Arab Spring”, Warsaw, Poland

• 25-28 June: EPP Women Summer Academy for Leading Women, “Women and the Digital Agenda”, Mellieha, Malta

• 29-30 October: EPP Women Congress, “Women and the Digital Agenda”, “Asylum and Refugee Policy”, Munich, Germany

For more information please visit: youthepp.eu

For more information please visit: www.epp-women.org

For more information please visit: esu-epp.eu

39ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

EDSEuropean Democrat Students (EDS) is the official student organisation of the EPP. Founded in 1961, EDS is the strongest voice of centre-right and pro-European students and is the largest political student organisation in Europe. Led by its Chairman Georgios CHATZIGEORGIOU and Secretary General IVAN BURAZIN, EDS has 39 member organisations from 33 countries, representing more than one million students and young people across the continent. Last year, EDS launched projects on tackling unemployment through the promotion of youth entrepreneurship and focused on the role of education. The topics of student mobility and e-learning are also current priorities for EDS. 2015 has been truly momentous for EDS, which made important contributions to improve the welfare of students not only within EU but also in the EU’s neighbouring countries. EDS has worked to promote European values in Ukraine, explored the Balkans on a study mission and visited Armenia to discuss the implementation of new governing models in Eastern Partnership countries. The EDS magazine “BullsEye”, published on a quarterly basis, offers a forum for debate and exchange of political views among students, activists and policy makers.

Georgios CHATZIGEORGIOU PRESIDENT

Ivan BURAZIN SECRETARY GENERAL

EDS - Activities in 2015.• 9-11 January: Bureau Meeting, Vienna, Austria• 24 February-1 March: Winter University, Brussels,

Belgium• 21-26 April: Council Meeting, Warsaw, Poland • 28-31 May: Students Forum, Tbilisi, Georgia• 10-14 June: Policy Days, Copenhagen/Malmö,

Denmark/Sweden• 28 July-2 August: Summer University, Valletta,

Malta• 4-6 September: Bureau Meeting and Co-Chairman

Training, Brussels, Belgium• 21-22 September: EDS and EPP Group in the

Committee of the Regions Study Visit, Brussels, Belgium

• 29 September-4 October: Council Meeting, Skopje, FYROM

• 9-12 December: Council Meeting in Yerevan, Armenia

EUCDWThe European Union of Christian Democratic Workers (EUCDW) is the voice and official association of Christian Democratic workers’ organisations within the EPP. Led by its President Elmar BROK and Secretary General Ivo BELET, EUCDW brings together 24 member organisations from 19 European countries, including Christian Democratic trade unions, political associations and civil society organisations. It promotes the interests of the affiliated workers’ organisations in the EPP and in the European Parliament. In 2015, EUCDW addressed a wide range of issues, including strengthening the social dialogue in the EU in the framework of the European Semester; EU investment in skills and training to deliver jobs in the framework of the Juncker Fund, the Youth Guarantee and the long-term unemployment recommendation; and a fair and balanced Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership which guarantees our high standards for workers, as well as high social and environmental standards. Overall, EUCDW promotes the Social Market Economy, which provides the framework in which competitiveness contributes to social justice, and social justice stimulates competitiveness, as the Christian Democratic model of the European Union.

Elmar BROK PRESIDENT

Ivo BELETSECRETARY GENERAL

EUCDW - Activities in 2015.• 5 February: Board and Presidium meeting, Athens,

Greece• 2 July: Board meeting, Malaga, Spain• 21-22 October: Open Presidium meeting and

participation in EPP Congress, Madrid, Spain• 27 November: Board meeting, Rome, Italy

SME EuropeSME Europe represents the small and medium entrepreneurs of Europe in the EPP family. SMEs are the backbone of the European economy and need tailor-made political solutions. The purpose of SME Europe, which became an EPP member association in 2013, is to shape EU policies in a more SME-friendly way and to bring a new spirit and fresh entrepreneurial wind to the political debate. SME Europe addresses a wide range of issues such as the internal market, international trade, innovation and research, as well as fighting red tape in order to strengthen the European economy and create sustainable jobs, growth and prosperity. SME Europe works closely together with national business organisations and European policy makers within the EPP political family, with a particular focus on the European Parliament. SME-Europe believe that less and smarter state intervention provides the best framework conditions for SMEs to develop.

Bendt BENDTSENPRESIDENT

Iuliu WINKLERFIRST VICE-PRESIDENT

SME Europe - Activities in 2015.• 20 January: Working Breakfast on “EU Regulation

on Conflict Minerals: working towards an effective solution” hosted by Iuliu WINKLER MEP, European Parliament

• 23 June: Working Breakfast on “Unlocking the potential of SMEs in the Digital Single Market – Innovation, IP protection and partnering for success” with Elisabetta GARDINI MEP, Iuliu WINKLER MEP, and Eva PAUNOVA MEP, European Parliament

• 29 September: Working Dinner on “Green vehicles for achieving a more sustainable transport system” with Paul RÜBIG MEP, Ivan ŠTEFANEC MEP, and Henna VIRKUNNEN MEP, European Parliament

• 21 October: Working Lunch on “Digital Single Market – A Chance for Growth for Europe’s SMEs” with Bendt BENDTSEN MEP, Paul RÜBIG MEP, Eva PAUNOVA MEP, Michal BONI MEP, and Angelika WINZIG MEP, EPP Statutory Congress Madrid

• 3 December: Working Breakfast on “SME strategy of the Balkans – what is needed from Europe” hosted by Davor Ivo STIER MEP, European Parliament

For more information please visit: edsnet.eu

For more information please visit: www.eucdw.org

For more information please visit: smeeurope.eu

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

Wilfried Martens Centre for European StudiesThe Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies (or Martens Centre), the official think tank of the EPP, had yet another year of exciting developments in 2015, while strengthening its network of member foundations which now comprises over thirty members and partners!

41ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 WILFRIED MARTENS CENTRE FOR EUROPEAN STUDIES

REFORMING UKRAINEIn December 2014, under the leadership of its President Mikuláš DZURINDA, former prime minister of Slovakia and successful country reformer, the Martens Centre launched the “#Ukraine Reforms” campaign to bring together the expertise of senior EU decision makers in support of the reform process in Ukraine. This transfer of experience is organised through public events, town-hall style meetings, TV debates, online articles and interviews held in Kyiv and other major Ukrainian cities. The initiative is supported by local partners including Ukrainian NGOs Reanimation Package for Reforms and Stronger Together, as well as the Kyiv School of Economics.

THE WEEK IN #60SECONDSThis year, the Martens Centre has launched its own European Political show by Roland FREUDENSTEIN, Policy Director of the Centre. Every week, particularly notorious news items were highlighted in the 60 seconds show, with the audience engaging on social media regularly commenting, and with two special editions; one during the 6th Transatlantic Think Tank Conference (TTTC) in Washington and the other during the EPP Congress in Madrid.

2015, THE RENAISSANCE OF THE WESTThe confrontation with a newly aggressive Russia is the most severe test the European Union has undergone in recent years. Through its Food for Thought series, the 6th annual Transatlantic Think Tank Conference in Washington and its publications, among which “Caught in the Act” and “Renaissance of the West”, the Martens Centre has actively been denouncing the propaganda war from Russia and stressed that the implementation of the Minsk II agreement needs to remain on the EU agenda. Transatlantic relations remain the foundation of the global liberal order. They have to be strengthened and put on a more strategic basis. This includes much more determination on both sides to make the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership a success.

TRANSATLANTIC THINK TANK CONFERENCE, TOWARDS A TRANSATLANTIC RENEWALIn July 2015, the Martens Centre organised its sixth Transatlantic Think Tank Conference (TTTC) to strengthen transatlantic relations and continue debate on transatlantic issues with like-minded think tanks on both sides of the Atlantic. Co-organised with the International Republican Institute, the Hudson Institute and this year also with the European Ideas Network, the TTTC dealt with current themes such as Brexit, Turkey’s relationship with the West, the importance of intelligence cooperation, and the final hurdles facing the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership. Furthermore, four public sessions were organised on providing a counter narrative for Putin’s war, power politics in the Middle East, economic growth strategies and the pivot to Asia. The TTTC participants also met with representatives of the Pew Research Centre and the Republican National Committee.

THE ECONOMIC IDEAS FORUM 2015On 2 December in Brussels, the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies hosted the 6th Annual Economic Ideas Forum (EIF). The Economic Ideas Forum is an annual high-level conference that brings together economic experts, EU heads of state and government, European Commissioners, ministers, business leaders and other influential stakeholders from around the world. The Forums provide an opportunity to identify innovative ideas and place them within the policymaking processes of the EPP. This year’s event focussed on three distinct themes which underpin the economic and political objectives of the EPP.

First, an acknowledgement that the digital economy has the potential to transform the European economy and to act as driver of growth and jobs across all member states. Second, the realisation that energy security and climate change are indelibly linked and that events in Ukraine have highlighted the need for a sustainable “Energy Union” in Europe with an increased diversification in Europe’s energy supply.

Third, a continued commitment to placing the EPP at the heart of reform efforts in the EU’s eastern neighbourhood, particularly with regard to states such as Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia.

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

Who is WhoPresidency

Joseph DAULFrance – LR

Kinga GÁLHungary – Fidesz

Paulo RANGELPortugal – PSD

Antonio TAJANIItaly - FI

Dara MURPHYIreland – FG

Marianne THYSSENBelgium – CD&V

David McALLISTERGermany – CDU

Jacek SARYUSZ-WOLSKIPoland - PO

Johannes HAHNAustria – ÖVP

Jyrki KATAINENFinland – KOK

Corien WORTMANN-KOOLNetherlands – CDA

Christian SCHMIDT / TreasurerGermany – CSU

Jean-Claude JUNCKERLuxembourg - CSV

Donald TUSK Poland - PO

Manfred WEBER Germany - CSU

PRESIDENT

VICEPRESIDENTS*

EX OFFICIOVICEPRESIDENTS

* In alphabetical order

SECRETARY GENERAL

Antonio LÓPEZ-ISTÚRIZSpain - PP

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

Secretariat

ELECTEDOFFICIALS

Pavlína HEYMANS-ŠPAČKOVÁ Assistant Ministerial Meet-ings, Archive Manager, EPP Women Admin

Daphné LAMAL HR and Finance Manager

Rok TUS Graphic Designer and Video Editor

Gonçalo CARRIÇO IT Administrator and Digital Policy Officer

Claudia CAJVAN Assistant to Deputy Secretary General Christian Kremer

Matteo ALBANIA Internal Communication and Marketing Officer

Brenda FURNIERE Head of the President’s Office

Sara PINI Deputy Head of the President’s Office

Ines Elise PRAINSACK-WARD Head of Policy and Strategy Unit

Giuseppina CURRELI Head of Secretary General’s Cabinet

Patrick VOLLER Secretary for External Relations

STAFF

Karine MILHEIRO Press and Communications Officer

Ecaterina CASINGE Press Relations Officer

Beatriz DE ANTA DE BENITO Political Adviser

Juha-Pekka NURVALA Political Adviser

Tadeja PROSEN Political Adviser

Guy VOLCKAERT Manager of Informatics and Internet

Maite ZABALETA Assistant to the Secretary General

Charlotte FRIZBERGAssistant Event Management

Yelba TORRES Assistant for Ministerial Meetings and Working Groups

Julia ZALUTSKAJA Assistant for External Relations

Christian KREMERDeputy Secretary General

Luc VANDEPUTTEDeputy Secretary General

Patrick CAMINADE President’s Office

Constance REYTER Intern

Giuliano EPIS Intern

Jasmin LADURNER Intern

Eva PALACKOVÁ Political Adviser

SPOKESMAN

Siegfried MURESAN Spokesman

Galina FOMENCHENKOSenior Political Adviser

Juan MAGAZ Political Adviser

Ajla HOTIC Political Adviser

John LAGESON Policy and Press Officer

44


epp

ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

Member PartiesEuropean Union Countries

Österreichische Volkspartei / ÖVP / Austrian People’s Party

Christen-Democratisch en Vlaams / CD&V / Christian Democrat and FlemishCentre démocrate humaniste / cdH / Humanist Democratic Centre

TOP 09Křesťanská a demokratická unie – Československá strana lidová / KDU-ČSL / Christian Democratic Union - Czechoslovak People’s Party

Det Konservative Folkeparti / C / Conservative People’s PartyKristendemokraterne / KD / Christian Democrats

Kansallinen Kokoomus / KOK / National Coalition PartyKristillisdemokraatit° / KD / Christian Democrats

Hrvatska demokratska zajednica / HDZ / Croatian Democratic UnionHrvatska seljačka stranka / HSS / Croatian Peasant’s Party

Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands / CDU / Christian Democratic Union of GermanyChristlich-Soziale Union in Bayern / CSU / Christian Social Union in Bavaria

Граждани за европейско развитие на България • Grazhdani za evropeysko razvitie na Balgariya / ГЕРБ • GERB / Citizens for European Development of BulgariaДемократи за силна България • Demokrati za silna Bulgaria / ДСБ • DSB / Democrats for a Strong BulgariaДвижение България на гражданите • Dvizhenie Bulgariya na grazhdanite / ДБГ • BCM / Bulgaria of the Citizens MovementСъюз на демократичните сили • Sayuz na demokratichnite sili / СДС • SDS / Union of Democratic ForcesДемократическа партия • Demokraticheska partia / ДП • DP / Democratic Party

AT

BE

CZ

DK

FI

HR

DE

BG

Isamaa ja Res Publica Liit / IRL / Pro Patria and Res Publica Union

Les Républicains / LR / The Republicans

CY

EE

FR

GR

Fidesz - Magyar Polgári Szövetség / FIDESZ / Fidesz - Hungarian Civic UnionKereszténydemokrata Néppárt / KDNP / Christian Democratic People’s Party

HU

+ Associate members ° Observer members

Vienotība / Unity

Tėvynės sąjunga - Lietuvos krikščionys demokratai / TS-LKD / Homeland Union – Lithuanian Christian Democrats

Chrëschtlech Sozial Vollekspartei / CSV / Christian Social People’s Party

Partit Nazzjonalista / PN / Nationalist Party

Christen-Democratisch Appèl / CDA / Christian Democratic Appeal

Forza Italia / FI / Forward ItalyNuovo Centrodestra / NCD / New Centre-RightUnione di Centro / UDC / Union of the CentrePopolari per l’Italia / PpI / Populars for ItalySüdtiroler Volkspartei° / SVP / South Tyrolean People’s Party

LV

LT

LU

MT

NL

IT

Platforma Obywatelska / PO / Civic PlatformPolskie Stronnictwo Ludowe / PSL / Polish People’s Party

Partido Social Democrata / PSD / Social Democratic PartyCentro Democrático e Social - Partido Popular / CDS-PP / Social and Democratic Centre – People’s Party

Partido Popular / PP / People’s PartyUnió Democràtica de Catalunya • Unión Democrática de Cataluña / UDC / Democratic Union of Catalonia

Moderata samlingspartiet / MOD - Moderaterna / Moderate Coalition PartyKristdemokraterna / KD / Christian Democrats

Partidul Naţional Liberal / PNL / National Liberal PartyRomániai Magyar Demokrata Szövetség • Uniunea Democrată Maghiară din România / RMDSZ • UDMR / Democratic Union of Hungarians in RomaniaMișcarea Populară / MP / People’s MovementPartidul Naţional Ţărănesc Creştin Democrat / PNŢCD / Christian Democratic National Peasant’s Party

Kresťanskodemokratické hnutie / KDH / Christian Democratic MovementMost-HídSlovenská demokratická a kresťanská únia – Demokratická strana / SDKÚ-DS / Slovakian Christian Democratic Union – Democratic PartyMagyar Közösség Pártja • Strana maďarskej komunity / SMK • MKP / Party of the Hungarian Community

Slovenska demokratska stranka / SDS / Slovenian Democratic PartySlovenska ljudska stranka / SLS / Slovenian People’s PartyNova Slovenija – krščanska ljudska stranka / N.Si / New Slovenia - Christian People’s Party

PL

PT

ES

SE

RO

SK

SI

Fine Gael / FG / Family of the IrishIE

ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 MEMBER PARTIES 45

Partia Demokratike e Shqipërisë+ / PDSH / Democratic Party of AlbaniaAL

• Hayastani Hanrapetakan Kusaktsutyun° / HHK / Republican Party of Armenia • Orinats Erkir° / OEK / Rule of Law • Zharangutyun° / Heritage

AM

Внатрешна македонска револуционерна организација – Демократска партија за македонско национално единство • Vnatrešna makedonska revolucionerna organizacija – Demokratska partija za makedonsko nacionalno edinstvo+ / ВМРО-ДПМНЕ • VMRO-DPMNE / Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organisation – Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity

MK

Партыя БНФ • Partyja BNF° / ПБНФ • PBNF / BPF Party / Belarussian People’s Front Аб’ядна́ная грамадзя́нская па́ртыя Белару́сі • Abjadnanaja hramadzianskaja partyja Biełarusi° / АГП • AHP / United Civic Party of Belarus

BY

Partidul Liberal Democrat din Moldova° / PLDM / Liberal Democratic Party of MoldovaMD

Lidhja Demokratike e Kosovës° / LDK / Democratic League of Kosovo

ერთიანი ნაციონალური მოძრაობა • Ertiani Natsionaluri Modzraoba° / ენმ • ENM - UNM / United National Movement

GE

Høyre+ / H / Conservative PartyKristelig Folkeparti° / KrF / Christian Democratic People’s Party

NO

Partito Democratico Cristiano Sammarinese° / PDCS / Sammarinese Christian Democratic PartySM

Vajdasági Magyar Szövetség • Савез војвођанских Мађара • Savez vojvođanskih Mađara+ / VMSZ • CBM • SVM / Alliance of Vojvodina Hungarians

RS

Christlichdemokratische Volkspartei • Parti démocrate-chrétien • Partito popolare democratico+ / CVP • PDC • PPD / Christian Democratic People’s Party

CH

Всеукраїнське об’єднання “Батьківщина” • Vseukrayins’ke Obyednannya Bat’kivshchyna° / Batkivschyna / All Ukrainian Union “Fatherland”Український демократичний альянс за реформи° / УДАР • UDAR / Ukrainian Democratic Alliance for Reform

UA

Stranka Demokratske Akcije° / SDA / Party of Democratic ActionHrvatska demokratska zajednica Bosne i Hercegovine° / HDZ BiH / Croatian Democratic Union of Bosnia and HerzegovinaHrvatska demokratska zajednica 1990° / HDZ 1990 / Croatian Democratic Union 1990Партија демократског прогреса • Partija demokratskog progresa° / ПДП • PDP / Party of Democratic Progress

BA

+ Associate members° Observer members

KOSOVO

ANNUAL REVIEW 2015 MEMBER PARTIES 46

Non-EU Countries

EU COUNTRYNON-EU COUNTRY

Not visible on this Map: Guadaloupe (F) / Guayana (F) / Martinique (F) / Mayotte (F) / Réunion (F) / Curaçao (NL) / Bonaire (NL) / Sint Maarten (NL) / Azores (P) / Canary Islands (ES)


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ANNUAL REVIEW 2015

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