A Brief History

The European People's Party: A Political Force in Europe

A Brief History

The European People's Party (EPP) is a centre-right political group of the European Parliament, consisting of deputies (MEPs) from the member states of the European Union (EU). The EPP is the largest and oldest political group in the European Parliament, and has been the largest party in the Parliament since its first direct elections in 1979.

The EPP was founded in 1976 by Christian Democratic and conservative parties from across Europe. The party's founding members included the German Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the French Union for a Popular Movement (UMP), and the Italian Christian Democratic Party (DC). The EPP has since expanded to include parties from 27 EU member states, as well as Norway and Switzerland.

Ideology and Policies

The EPP is a centre-right political party that supports a free market economy, limited government, and social justice. The party's platform includes support for free trade, deregulation, and tax cuts. The EPP also supports a strong European Union, and has been a leading advocate for further European integration.

On social issues, the EPP is generally conservative. The party opposes abortion, euthanasia, and same-sex marriage. The EPP also supports traditional family values and the role of religion in society.