The European People’s Party (EPP) has adopted resolutions targeting Islamist networks and proposing stricter asylum policies.

The European People’s Party (EPP), the EU’s largest political force, passed resolutions on Tuesday (30 June) calling for the mapping of Islamist networks and the abolition of subsidiary protection for asylum seekers. The EPP claims Islamist organisations exploit religion to undermine European democracy, drawing comparisons to interference by Russia and China. It also advocates cutting funding to civil society and increasing intelligence efforts on Islam.

Critics, including the European Network Against Racism, argue the resolutions perpetuate racist stereotypes and foster exclusion and suspicion against Muslims. On migration, the EPP seeks to abolish subsidiary protection, which safeguards individuals facing serious harm if returned to their countries. Rights defenders warn these measures could heighten risks for vulnerable populations. Magnus Brunner, EU commissioner for home affairs, praised the EPP’s migration stance during its political assembly in Vienna, citing recent deportation legislation as evidence of a ‘new mind shift.’