EU Commission President Secures Re-Election with Ambitious Agenda
In a decisive vote, Ursula von der Leyen has been re-elected for a second term as President of the European Commission, promising a robust future for the European Union. Her re-election marks a significant moment for the EU, as von der Leyen outlines her ambitious plans to bolster defence capabilities and maintain steadfast climate commitments. With 401 votes in favour and 284 against, von der Leyen’s victory highlights the support from a coalition of centre-right, centre-left, liberal, and Green lawmakers in the European Parliament.
A Vision for a European Defence Union
Von der Leyen, a former German defence minister, has made defence a central theme of her second term. In her speech to the European Parliament, she emphasised the need for a “true European Defence Union” to respond to the growing security threats posed by Russia’s war in Ukraine and the shifting global geopolitical landscape.
“Europe’s liberty is at stake,” von der Leyen declared, stressing that the EU must invest more in its defence infrastructure. Her plans include flagship projects on air and cyber defence, aiming to reduce Europe’s dependency on external forces and build internal strength. This move has sparked criticism from the Kremlin, which views it as a step towards militarisation and confrontation.
The push for a unified European defence policy marks a significant shift, traditionally dominated by national governments and NATO. However, von der Leyen’s initiative comes at a time of uncertainty regarding the United States’ future role in European security, especially if Donald Trump were to win the U.S. presidential election in November. By championing joint European defence projects, von der Leyen seeks to ensure Europe’s security and autonomy irrespective of external political changes.
Committed to Climate Targets Amidst Economic Challenges
Alongside her defence plans, climate policy remains a cornerstone of von der Leyen’s agenda. She reaffirmed her commitment to the “Green Deal”, which aims to transform the EU economy to combat climate change while supporting European industries in this transition.
Von der Leyen proposed a legally-binding EU target to cut emissions by 90% by 2040, compared to 1990 levels. “The next five years will define Europe’s place in the world for the next five decades,” she stated, highlighting the critical nature of maintaining climate goals. Despite the economic burden this may pose, von der Leyen promised measures to help industries stay competitive as they reduce emissions.
The backing from the Greens was pivotal in securing von der Leyen’s re-election. Their support underscores the importance of her climate commitments, which have been a key issue for Green lawmakers. Her coalition, which includes centre-right, centre-left, and liberal groups, ensured a comfortable margin of victory, reflecting broad support for her climate and economic strategies.
Navigating Internal and External Challenges
Von der Leyen’s re-election comes at a time of both internal and external challenges for the EU. Internally, the rise of far-right and eurosceptic parties poses a threat to the Union’s cohesion. Externally, the EU faces the ongoing impact of Russia’s aggression and the potential for a protectionist and isolationist U.S. administration.
In her address, von der Leyen condemned Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s recent visit to Russian President Vladimir Putin as an “appeasement mission”, garnering applause from lawmakers. Her stance on Hungary reflects a broader commitment to upholding European values and unity against external threats.
Looking ahead, von der Leyen emphasised the importance of reducing dependencies and building the EU’s strength. “We will work closely with our friends and allies,” she assured, while also highlighting the need for Europe to be prepared for various geopolitical outcomes.
Assembling a New Commission
With her re-election secured, von der Leyen will now focus on assembling her new European Commission. She has requested national leaders to send two potential candidates for commissioners, a man and a woman, to ensure gender balance. The current commissioners will remain in place only if re-nominated by their respective countries.
Von der Leyen aims to have her new team in place by November 1, following interviews and hearings from lawmakers. This new Commission will play a crucial role in implementing her ambitious agenda, shaping the future of the EU in the face of ongoing global challenges.
In summary, Ursula von der Leyen’s re-election as President of the European Commission marks a critical juncture for the EU. Her commitments to a European Defence Union and the Green Deal reflect a vision of a stronger, more autonomous, and climate-conscious Europe. As the EU navigates a complex geopolitical landscape, von der Leyen’s leadership promises stability and continuity in addressing both internal and external challenges.
FAQ
Ursula von der Leyen received 401 votes in favour and 284 against, securing her re-election.
She aims to create a European Defence Union and continue the Green Deal to combat climate change.
She believes it’s necessary to strengthen Europe’s security and reduce dependency on external forces.
She has proposed a legally-binding EU target to cut emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels.
Her plans aim to reduce Europe’s dependency on the US, especially in light of potential changes in the US administration.
She will ask national leaders to send two potential candidates for commissioners, aiming for gender balance, and expects to have the new team in place by November 1.
