How a British-led experiment in soft euroscepticism became a powerhouse of the European Parliament

Countries & Cities · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Founded in 2009 by David Cameron to challenge federalist trends, the European Conservatives and Reformists Group has evolved from a niche alliance into a major political force. By championing national sovereignty and free trade, it has navigated internal fractures and shifting alliances to become a central player in European governance.

The European Conservatives and Reformists Group (ECR) emerged from the Movement for European Reform, established after the 2009 European Parliament elections. Spearheaded by British Conservative leader David Cameron, the group was designed as an alternative to the federalist-leaning European People's Party (EPP). Its founding principles, codified in the Prague Declaration, emphasize free enterprise, national sovereignty, and the family as the bedrock of society. The ECR advocates for 'soft euroscepticism,' a stance that seeks democratic reform and reduced bureaucracy within the European Union rather than total withdrawal.

The group's trajectory has been defined by constant flux. Initially, it sought to unite center-right parties skeptical of deeper integration. However, the ECR has frequently served as a magnet for diverse factions, including national conservatives, Christian democrats, and right-wing populists. This ideological breadth has led to significant internal friction. For instance, the group faced early instability when Polish MEP Michał Kamiński’s leadership bid caused a rift, and later, the departure of the British Conservatives following Brexit in 2020 fundamentally altered its composition. The group has also grappled with the controversial reputations of some members, leading to occasional exclusions and internal debates over its ideological direction.

Despite these challenges, the ECR has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth. By the 2014 elections, it had become the third-largest group in the European Parliament, positioning itself as a kingmaker in legislative processes. Its membership has shifted significantly over time, with parties like Brothers of Italy and Law and Justice becoming dominant forces. In the 2024 elections, the ECR further expanded its influence, reaching 84 MEPs and again securing its status as the third-largest group. Today, it remains a pivotal, if sometimes contentious, platform for those who view the European Union as a cooperative framework of sovereign nations rather than a federal superstate.

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