On June 1, 2026, reports revealed that the Authority for European Political Parties and Foundations (APPF) has conducted a review that may threaten the funding and official status of the Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN) alliance. This far-right coalition, which includes the AfD, is facing scrutiny amid allegations of breaching core EU principles such as democracy, rule of law, and minority rights.

The APPF sent a detailed letter, comprising 300 pages of evidence, to various EU institutions regarding the ESN’s compliance with EU values. This evidence includes documented instances of anti-immigrant, antisemitic, and anti-LGBT statements made by party officials. Reports suggest that if the review confirms serious violations, the ESN could lose its status as a registered European political party and consequently forfeit access to substantial EU funding, which is estimated to exceed €2 million annually.

A spokesperson for the European Commission acknowledged receipt of the APPF's concerns and stated that the commission is currently assessing the information. The APPF stressed that while the investigation is underway, the ESN retains the right to respond, and any decision regarding deregistration would include a thorough procedural review.

The scrutiny comes at a time of heightened tensions within Europe regarding rising nationalist and anti-immigrant sentiments. Proponents of the ESN alliance denounce the review as a politically motivated attempt to suppress right-wing and sovereigntist movements, arguing that it reflects broader efforts to marginalize these viewpoints within European politics.

As the investigation unfolds, the outcomes may have significant ramifications for the ESN's political future, as well as for similar parties across the EU that advocate nationalist and anti-immigrant policies. The implications of this review extend beyond the ESN itself, raising questions about the EU's approach to managing political diversity and its adherence to fundamental democratic values.