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Reform of the European Electoral Act – hurdles to ratification and implementation in the Member States

TA-10-2026-0006 · P10_TA(2026)0006 · PE767.970

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Written by a language model from the full text only; every figure comes from the text. The paragraph links open the paragraph a statement rests on — check the text itself before relying on it.

This resolution addresses the reform of the European Electoral Act, focusing on hurdles to ratification and implementation in member states. It calls for harmonizing electoral rules, enhancing accessibility, and ensuring the 2018 reform enters into force.

Key points

  1. Recalls that many provisions of the current European Electoral Act are implemented in all member states, including proportional representation, a maximum 5% threshold, and a ban on dual mandates.
  2. Notes that optional measures in Council Decision 2018/994 have not been implemented by some member states, and mandatory measures like preventing double voting have been implemented differently.
  3. Points out that deadlines for finalising electoral lists vary from 21 to 90 days, placing candidates and voters in unequal positions.
  4. Considers that ballot papers must include candidate names and logos of European political parties, and candidates should have visibility in campaigns, as a minimum requirement.
  5. Emphasises that barriers to voting for persons with disabilities are incompatible with the UN Convention and should be removed.
  6. Stresses that offering postal voting as a guaranteed option in all member states would benefit persons with disabilities and mobile citizens.
  7. Recalls that dual EU citizens may be automatically registered on more than one electoral roll and could face penalties for not voting in each.
  8. Welcomes the initiative to introduce proxy voting for maternity leave as a solution to support MEPs.
  9. Notes that Council Decision 2018/994 is not yet in force because one member state has not ratified it; Germany has ratified but cannot introduce the 2% threshold unless it becomes mandatory under EU law.
  10. Calls on all member states to implement optional measures in Council Decision 2018/994, including enhancing visibility of electoral alliances and affiliations.
  11. Calls on member states to harmonise candidacy requirements to ensure fair access to the electoral process.
  12. Calls on the remaining member state to start ratification of Council Decision 2018/994 so it can enter into force.

Who is affected

  • Member states, which are called on to implement optional measures and harmonise rules.
  • Persons with disabilities, who should have equal access to voting and candidacy.
  • Dual EU citizens, who face issues with electoral registration and penalties.
  • European political parties, which should have enhanced visibility in elections.

Figures and deadlines

  • Deadlines for finalising electoral lists range from 21 to 90 days.
  • Maximum electoral threshold of 5% is implemented in all member states.

Legal basis: Articles 9, 10, 14 and 17(7) TEU and Articles 22, 223(1) and 225 TFEU