European Union (EU) Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to unveil her new team of Commissioners for the next five years on Tuesday, after a prolonged and tumultuous process to assemble the group. The process, which has seen political maneuvering, high-profile resignations, and criticism from within and outside the EU, is crucial to shaping the future policy direction of the 27-nation bloc.
Scandals and Resignations
The road to forming von der Leyen’s College of Commissioners has been fraught with challenges. French heavyweight Thierry Breton, a key figure and former Commissioner for Internal Market, resigned abruptly on Monday, accusing von der Leyen of engaging in questionable governance and “backroom machinations” aimed at pushing him out. Breton, widely regarded as a powerful player within the EU, had been critical of von der Leyen’s leadership style, and his departure is seen as a forced removal by the Commission president, who reportedly exerted pressure on French authorities to replace him.
Breton’s resignation sent shockwaves through the EU’s political corridors. His public criticism of von der Leyen highlights the internal discord within the European Commission, raising questions about the transparency and accountability of the selection process. Many observers believe that his exit was the culmination of a deeper conflict between him and von der Leyen, who has been accused of sidelining critics.
Struggles for Gender Parity
A significant challenge for von der Leyen has been achieving gender balance in her Commission. Despite her commitment to ensuring gender parity, several member states were resistant to offering a choice between male and female candidates. Many governments put forward only male candidates, defying von der Leyen’s efforts to ensure equal representation in the College of Commissioners.
Von der Leyen faced particular pushback from smaller EU countries, who were reluctant to change their nominations. After weeks of secret negotiations with national governments, she managed to secure some concessions, but not without significant effort. In one notable case, Slovenia withdrew its male candidate in favor of a female nominee after intense discussions.
Despite these hurdles, von der Leyen has succeeded in assembling a diverse team, though it still falls short of her original ambition for full gender parity.
Political Power Plays
Behind the scenes, von der Leyen engaged in constant negotiations with member states and political leaders in the European Parliament, in an effort to balance national interests and political affiliations. The composition of the Commission has become a hotly contested issue within the EU’s upper echelons, as political figures jockey for influence over key portfolios.
The makeup of the Commission, while not a topic of everyday discussion for the EU’s 450 million citizens, has captivated Brussels insiders. Countries have lobbied aggressively for coveted portfolios, such as those dealing with trade, finance, and EU enlargement, which are seen as highly influential in shaping the future of the bloc.
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The Role of the European Commission
The European Commission plays a crucial role in the EU’s governance, proposing legislation for the member states and ensuring compliance with the bloc’s regulations. The College of Commissioners oversees a wide range of portfolios, akin to government ministers, covering areas like agriculture, competition, migration, and security.
The Commission’s leadership will be pivotal in addressing pressing issues such as climate change, migration, and economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, with the ongoing war in Ukraine and its economic and political consequences, the EU’s external relations and security policies are set to be at the forefront of the Commission’s agenda.
Delays in Starting Work
Although the new Commission is slated to begin work on November 1, speculation is growing that it might not be fully operational until January. The delays stem from the extended nomination and approval process, which has been slowed by the political controversies and internal disagreements.
Coveted Roles and Vice Presidents
Once the team is in place, von der Leyen will have the task of assigning portfolios. Certain roles, such as those dealing with trade, finance, and foreign policy, are highly sought after by member states eager to exert influence over the bloc’s direction. The position of Vice President, of which there are seven within the Commission, is also a coveted post, carrying significant political weight and responsibility.
Von der Leyen’s upcoming unveiling of her new team marks a crucial moment for the EU, as it faces numerous internal and external challenges. While the process has been marred by scandals and political maneuvering, the formation of the Commission will determine the EU’s legislative and policy direction for the next five years, with wide-ranging implications for the bloc’s future.
