PRO members debate European political affiliation

Members of the Dutch political party PRO held a tense and emotional meeting in Utrecht to discuss whether the party should align with the Party of European Socialists (PES) or the European Greens. The debate follows the planned merger of the PvdA and GroenLinks, which left PRO's European affiliation uncertain.

An advisory committee, supported by party leader Jesse Klaver and the board, has recommended joining the social democrats while maintaining strong ties with the Greens. However, this recommendation has met with mixed reactions. Proponents of PES highlight the group's influence in Brussels, while supporters of the Greens argue that their stances on climate and LGBTQ+ issues are a better fit for PRO's identity.

Some members expressed frustration, claiming the discussion was delayed for too long and that they are now being forced to make a rushed decision in a ‘pressure cooker’ environment. Members will vote on the matter in a referendum held between September 18 and September 25.