Green EU Leader Bas Eickhout Resigns After Relationship Disclosure

In a statement on Bluesky, Eickhout wrote in German: 'Ich habe nicht immer das Richtige getan' ('I have not always done the right thing'). He added that his party was 'entering a new phase and needs new strength,' suggesting his departure was also motivated by a desire for renewal within the Greens.

Transparency and Accountability

The Green faction confirmed that all members had been informed about the relationship and stated it would not impair their work. 'A professional and open working environment for all is essential,' the group said in a statement.

Eickhout has been a Green Member of the European Parliament for 17 years and was a top candidate in the 2024 European elections. His Dutch party, GroenLinks, is currently merging with the Social Democrats to form a new party called 'PRO.'

Political Context

Lena Schilling, the youngest member of the European Parliament, confirmed the relationship to Austria's Kronen Zeitung. The Green faction respected Eickhout's decision to resign and emphasized that potential breaches of their internal code of conduct are taken seriously.

Eickhout's resignation has sparked a leadership dispute within the European Greens. In his social media posts, he expressed pride in his achievements: 'For seventeen years I have fought body and soul for green ideals, the party, and our group.'

The Greens stressed the importance of maintaining professional standards while acknowledging Eickhout's contributions. The faction stated that the disclosure ensured all members were informed and that the relationship would not affect their work.