The index is a statistics-based method of measuring political influence, or the ability to change legislation, win votes and shape debates, as well as social influence, or the ability to reach people, shape public conversation and build support, and Picula won 92.3 out of 100 points, VoteWatch Europe said.
According to a VoteWatch Europe press release, Picula is the second most influential on foreign affairs, especially regarding the Western Balkans.
"The Croatian Social Democrat is in charge of drafting the annual progress report of Montenegro and is chairing the Western Balkans EP Working Group. Recently, this MEP drafted the EP recommendation regarding the 2020 Western Balkans summit," the think tank's press release read.
Following the release of the Influence Index results, Picula expressed satisfaction that his engagement and work had been acknowledged by an independent think tank, adding that European foreign policy was an important tool for shaping a common European future.