European Union leaders have reached a consensus on the officials poised to occupy key positions within the world's largest trading bloc following the recent EU Parliament elections. These positions include the leadership of the European Commission, the European Council, and the bloc’s top diplomatic role. Ursula von der Leyen, a 65-year-old German politician, has been endorsed for a second term as President of the European Commission. Her reappointment was bolstered by the center-right European People’s Party, which maintained its status as the largest group in the EU Parliament.
Von der Leyen garnered praise for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for orchestrating the collective purchase of vaccines for EU citizens. However, her tenure has not been without controversy. She faced significant criticism for the lack of transparency in negotiations with vaccine manufacturers.
Moreover, von der Leyen has been a prominent advocate for the EU’s Green Deal, aiming for climate neutrality by 2050. Yet, her commitment to these environmental policies has been scrutinized, especially amid concerns that the EU’s climate laws could adversely impact farmers.
As President of the European Commission, von der Leyen will set the EU executive arm's policy agenda, represent the commission in various high-level meetings, and lead trade negotiations. Her second term will require approval from European lawmakers, with a vote anticipated in July. In 2019, she secured her position by a narrow margin.
Antonio Costa
Antonio Costa, the former Prime Minister of Portugal, has been nominated to replace Charles Michel as President of the European Council. The 62-year-old socialist is set for a 2.5-year term, renewable once.
Costa’s appointment follows the Socialist group’s second-place finish in the EU elections, strengthening his candidacy despite prior controversies. His government was embroiled in a corruption investigation leading to his resignation as Prime Minister last year. Costa maintains his innocence and has not been charged with any crime.
As Council President, Costa will chair summits and seek consensus among EU member states. He will also represent the EU at international summits alongside von der Leyen. Known for his political acumen, Costa aims to navigate the complex dynamics within the European Council, building on his reputation as a skilled negotiator.
Kaja Kallas
Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas has been nominated as the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, marking the highest EU position ever awarded to an Estonian. Despite her liberal party’s losses in the European elections, Kallas was chosen to succeed Josep Borrell.
Kallas, a 47-year-old lawyer, has been a fervent supporter of Ukraine and a vocal critic of Russia. Her stance has been influential within both the European Union and NATO. She has advocated for a robust NATO defense plan for the Baltic states, which border Russia.
Kallas’ nomination is subject to approval by the EU Parliament. She has led Estonia since January 2021, becoming the country’s first female head of government. Her international ambitions included a potential bid for the NATO Secretary General position, now filled by outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte.
These endorsements set the stage for the EU’s strategic direction in the coming years, addressing challenges from economic policies to geopolitical tensions. The confirmed appointments will shape the bloc’s response to global issues and internal dynamics.
