The European Union (EU) has undergone significant changes in its leadership since the beginning of 2019. One of these alterations includes the continuity of Ursula Von der Leyen as European Commission President. This German politician, who has been in office since December 2019, recently secured a second term with the backing of the European Parliament. Her tenure was marked by various initiatives and policies aimed at promoting unity and progress within the EU.
Quick Read
New Council President: Costa
In late 2022, a new EU Council President was appointed – Josep Borrell Fontelles, previously the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. He was replaced by Charles Michel, a Belgian prime minister, who assumed the role of EU Council President. However, it was not long before another change took place; in early 2023, Roberto Costa, an Italian politician, stepped into the position. Costa had previously served as President of the European Parliament and was known for his strong support of EU unity.
Kallas at Foreign Affairs
Another important appointment came in the form of Urkas Kallas, an Estonian politician, who became the new EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. This role, previously held by Josep Borrell Fontelles, entails leading the European External Action Service (EEAS). Kallas’s appointment marked a significant shift in foreign policy towards a more assertive and independent stance, as well as a focus on digital diplomacy.
Meloni’s Abstention
One of the most notable events during this period was the abstention of Giorgia Meloni, an Italian far-right politician, from a crucial EU budget vote in late 202Meloni, who had recently become the Italian Prime Minister, justified her decision by stating that certain elements of the EU budget infringed upon national sovereignty. Her abstention sparked significant controversy and raised concerns about the future of EU-Italian relations.
I. Introduction
The political landscape of the European Union (EU) has undergone significant changes following the 2019 elections. With over 705 million citizens spread across 27 member states, the EU is a complex and diverse political entity that requires careful coordination and effective leadership. The appointment process for key positions in the EU institutions is a critical moment in this process, as it sets the stage for the next chapter of EU politics.
Brief overview of the 2019 EU elections
The European Parliament (EP) elections held in May 2019 marked a turning point for EU politics. The center-right European People’s Party (EPP) and the center-left Social Democrats (S&D) suffered significant losses, while the far-right and green parties gained ground. The results highlighted the growing polarization within the EU, with some parties advocating for more integration and others pushing for a more nationalist agenda.
Importance of appointments to EU institutions
The appointment process for key positions in the EU institutions is crucial for ensuring a balanced and effective EU executive. The European Commission, which proposes EU legislation and manages EU policies, is led by a President and a College of Commissioners. The European Council, comprised of the heads of state or government of the EU member states, sets the EU’s overall political direction and strategic goals. The European Parliament, the EU’s legislative body, plays a critical role in scrutinizing the Commission and approving EU legislation.
The role of political groups in the appointment process
The political groups within the European Parliament hold significant power in the appointment process. Each political group has the right to propose a candidate for the presidency of the Commission. The European Council then considers these proposals and, following consultations with national leaders, selects a candidate who can command a majority in the Parliament. This process ensures that the EU’s political diversity is represented at the highest levels of the EU institutions, while also allowing for a degree of consensus and cooperation among EU leaders.
E. The impact of the appointment process on EU politics
The outcome of the appointment process can have a profound impact on EU politics/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>politics
. A strong and effective Commission presidency can help to address key challenges facing the EU, such as climate change, migration, and economic inequality. Conversely, a weak or divisive Commission presidency can lead to political instability and gridlock within the EU institutions. The appointment process therefore represents a critical moment in EU politics, as it sets the stage for the next chapter of EU policy-making and governance.
Appointment of Ursula von der Leyen as European Commission President
Her Background and Political Career:
Ursula von der Leyen, a German politician, began her political career in the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party. She served as Germany’s Defense Minister from 2013 to 2019, making her the first woman to hold this position in German history. Before entering politics, she worked as a pediatrician and a researcher in molecular biology. Her background in science and medicine has often been emphasized during her political tenure.
Controversial Appointment due to her Lack of a Clear EU Faction:
Von der Leyen’s appointment as European Commission President was controversial due to her lack of a clear faction within the EU. She did not come from one of the major EU political groups, such as the European People’s Party (EPP), the Socialists & Democrats (S&D), or the Liberal Alliance (ALDE). Instead, she was an independent candidate.
Her Support from European People’s Party (EPP):
Despite her lack of a clear EU faction, von der Leyen received strong support from the largest political group in the European Parliament – the EPP. The EPP, which includes German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s CDU party, used its influence to secure her nomination for the Commission presidency.
Opposition from Various Parties and Members of the EU Parliament:
However, von der Leyen’s appointment faced significant opposition from various parties and members of the EU Parliament. The European Greens, the far-left GUE group, and some EPP members expressed their concerns over her lack of a clear mandate and her perceived pro-business stance.
How her Appointment was Secured despite the Opposition:
Despite the opposition, von der Leyen’s appointment was secured through a combination of political compromises and the role of European Council President Charles Michel.
Political Compromises:
To secure a majority for von der Leyen’s nomination, the European Parliament agreed to several political compromises. For instance, the Parliament agreed to create new positions and portfolios in the Commission, including a Vice-President for Protecting the European Way of Life and a Executive Vice-President for the European Green Deal.
The Role of European Council President Michel:
The role of European Council President Charles Michel was crucial in securing von der Leyen’s appointment. He played a key role in the negotiations between various political groups, ensuring that compromises were reached and agreements were signed. Additionally, he used his influence to secure enough votes for von der Leyen from various parties and factions in the European Parliament.
I Appointments of Josep Borrell Fontelles as High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
Background on the role and responsibilities of this position
The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, also known as the High Representative or HR/VP, is a key figure in the European Union (EU) political setup. This role was established in 1999, with the aim to provide the EU with a unified voice and common foreign and security policy. The High Representative chairs the Foreign Affairs Council and the European Council on Foreign Relations, and represents the EU in various international forums. This role is both a vice-president of the European Commission and a member of the European Council.
Initial nomination of Josep Borrell Fontelles
His background and political career
Josep Borrell Fontelles is a Spanish diplomat, politician, and journalist with a long-standing career in public service. He served as the Foreign Minister of Spain from 2016 to 2018, and was previously the EU Special Representative for Southeast Europe between 2009 and 201Borrell Fontelles started his career in diplomacy in 1973 and has held various positions within the Spanish foreign service, including as ambassador to Belgium (1996-2000), permanent representative to NATO (2004-2009), and vice-president of the European Parliament from 1987 to 1989.
Reactions from European Parliament members
Upon his nomination, Borrell Fontelles received a mixed response from the European Parliament’s (EP) Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). While some welcomed his extensive diplomatic experience, others expressed concerns about his past views on EU integration and his perceived closeness to the Spanish government. The European People’s Party (EPP), to which Borrell Fontelles belonged, held a majority in the EP at that time, but some EPP members also voiced their reservations.
The unexpected turn of events: Kallas’ appointment instead
Background and political career of Kristjan Kallas
An unexpected turn of events unfolded when, in late 2019, Estonian Prime Minister Jüri Ratas announced that his country’s Foreign Minister, Kristjan Kallas, would be the new HR/VP instead of Borrell Fontelles. Kallas, a former Estonian finance minister and an MEP for the Reform Party, had a more recent background in politics compared to Borrell Fontelles.
Reactions to his nomination
Kallas’ nomination sparked a debate within the EP, with some MEPs expressing surprise and disappointment over Borrell Fontelles being passed over. However, his appointment was also seen as an opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to the role, given Kallas’ background in finance and his reputation for being pro-EU.
Why he was chosen over Borrell Fontelles
The reasons behind Kallas’ appointment instead of Borrell Fontelles remain unclear, but it is believed that political maneuvering and a desire for change may have played a role. Some observers speculate that the EU’s larger member states, particularly France, might have had an influence on the decision. Regardless of the reasons, Kallas became the new High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy in December 2019, making history as the first Estonian to hold this position.
Appointment of Charles Michel as President of the European Council
Background on the Role and Responsibilities of this Position
The President of the European Council is not to be confused with the President of the European Commission. While the latter is responsible for proposing EU legislation and managing day-to-day EU business, the former’s role is to lead EU summits and represent the 27 EU member states collectively. They also act as a mediator between the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the national governments.
His Political Career and Past Experience in EU Politics
Charles Michel, born on October 27, 1975, is a Belgian politician from the Reformist Movement (MR). He served as the Belgian Prime Minister from December 2018 to October 2020. Michel began his political career in the late 1990s, working as an assistant to the Belgian European Affairs Minister. He was appointed as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) in 2014, representing his home country.
Reactions from European Parliament Members and Various EU Leaders
Michel’s appointment was met with a mixed reaction. Some EU leaders, such as German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron, expressed their support for Michel’s nomination. However, there were criticisms from various EU parliament members, including those from the European Parliament’s left-wing political groups. They argued that the appointment of a national politician to such an influential EU position undermines the role and power of the European Parliament.
The Significance of His Appointment for the EU Political Landscape
Michel’s appointment as President of the European Council comes at a crucial time for the EU. The bloc is facing numerous challenges, from Brexit to the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. With his extensive experience in Belgian and EU politics, Michel is expected to be a strong mediator between EU member states during this challenging period. However, some observers argue that his appointment further strengthens the power of national governments at the expense of the European Parliament.
V. Meloni‘s abstention on Ursula von der Leyen‘s appointment as the European Commission President in July 2019, raised significant political waves within the
European Union (EU)
. Meloni, an Italian politician and leader of the
Brothers of Italy
(Federazione della Destra), has been a prominent figure in Italian and European politics for over two decades.
Background of Giorgia Meloni and her political party, the Brothers of Italy
Meloni, born on January 15, 1970, rose to prominence in the mid-1990s as a member of
Alleanza Nazionalista Italiana (AN)
(National Alliance), a right-wing political party. She left AN in 2009 to form her own party, Brothers of Italy, which merged with Silvio Berlusconi’s Forza Italia in 201Her party, known for its nationalist and populist stance, has gained significant popularity in recent years due to growing discontent with the traditional political class.
Her opposition to Von der Leyen’s appointment and reasons behind it
Meloni‘s abstention on Von der Leyen’s appointment was a strategic move, reflecting her stance on various EU issues. She has been critical of the EU’s
migration policies
, advocating for stricter border control and a more nationalist approach. She has also expressed concerns over the EU’s
economic
policies, particularly its fiscal rules, which she believes stifle economic growth and are too rigid.
Meloni‘s opposition to Von der Leyen’s appointment was also a signal of her party’s growing influence in EU politics. Her decision sent a strong message to Brussels that the Brothers of Italy would not be ignored and that their views were an important part of the political discourse. Moreover, it highlighted the growing divide between the EU’s more federalist and more nationalist members, a trend that is likely to continue in the years ahead.
VI. Conclusion
Summary of the key events, appointments, and reactions:
The last few months have seen a significant shift in the European political landscape. With the departure of key figures such as Angela Merkel and Emmanuel Macron‘s re-election, the EU has witnessed a series of appointments that are poised to shape its future direction. In Germany, Olaf Scholz has taken over as Chancellor, while in France, Macron has secured another term. Simultaneously, Mario Draghi assumed the role of Prime Minister in Italy, and Kiril Petkov became Bulgaria’s new Prime Minister. These transitions have been met with various reactions, including optimism for fresh leadership and concerns about continuity and stability.
Implications for the European Union and its future political landscape:
The appointments of Scholz, Macron, Draghi, and Petkov could have profound implications for the EU. Scholz’s pragmatic approach and emphasis on economic stability may influence the EU’s response to crises such as energy security and the ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Macron’s second term could solidify his pro-European stance, potentially leading to further integration efforts. Draghi’s leadership in Italy may bring a renewed focus on EU cooperation and reforms, while Petkov’s anti-corruption platform could set a new standard for transparency and good governance.
Potential challenges ahead for newly appointed officials and their impact on EU politics:
Despite the opportunities presented by these new appointments, there are also significant challenges ahead. Macron’s re-election has come amid growing Euroskepticism and nationalist sentiment in France and across Europe, which could limit his ability to pursue integrationist agendas. Scholz must navigate a complex political landscape within the EU, including differences between member states on issues such as energy policy and fiscal matters. Draghi faces the task of implementing reforms in a country with deep-seated political instability and economic challenges, while Petkov must tackle corruption and establish a credible government in the face of opposition from powerful vested interests. These challenges could create tensions within the EU, potentially leading to further polarization and instability.
