As Ursula von der Leyen prepares to form her new team for the European Commission, she encounters a series of substantial challenges.

The President-elect has formally requested the names of candidates from member states by the end of this week, with interviews scheduled to commence in mid-to-late August. However, the task of forming a well-rounded and effective Commission will require navigating a complex landscape of gender parity, political party affiliations, and portfolio negotiations.

Striving for gender balance

In her first term, von der Leyen prioritised gender parity by encouraging member states to propose both male and female candidates. This approach aimed to attain gender balance within the Commission. As she prepares for her second term, she has reiterated her dedication to this principle. However, achieving this balance poses a significant challenge. Recent nominations from various member states have sparked discussions on how to maintain gender parity in the forthcoming Commission.

Political affiliation challenges

The composition of the new European Commission led by Ursula von der Leyen will be influenced by political dynamics, with a likely dominance of conservative figures from the European People’s Party (EPP). This could lead to the most EPP-dominated Commission in history. However, there are complications arising from domestic political situations.

For instance, the potential appointment of Lithuania’s Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis faces internal political challenges, while Luxembourg’s outgoing Jobs Commissioner Nicolas Schmit (S&D)’s chances are hindered by domestic preferences for another candidate, hailing from the EPP.

Von der Leyen will need to balance these affiliations carefully while addressing calls for increased diversity in party representation within her team.

Portfolio negotiations and power dynamics

The allocation of portfolios within the European Commission is a contentious issue, with member states vying for influential positions. Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, is seeking key roles related to industry and competitiveness, while Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala has expressed interest in an economic portfolio. Competition for prominent positions in competition, trade, and economic policy is expected to be intense.

Portfolios such as agriculture, which the European People’s Party (EPP) is keen to secure, are also likely to be contentious. Additionally, new portfolios addressing specific issues such as the Mediterranean, the defence industry, and housing are anticipated to attract significant interest.

President Ursula von der Leyen is considering a restructuring of the Commission to enhance operational efficiency. This may involve reducing the current three-tiered structure of executive vice-presidents, vice-presidents, and commissioners to two levels. The aim of this restructuring is to clarify power dynamics and expedite decision-making processes.

Scrutiny and confirmation

Upon the appointment of the nominees proposed by President von der Leyen, they will undergo a rigorous evaluation process. Parliamentary hearings, scheduled for late September or early October, will thoroughly assess the candidates through detailed questioning and public sessions. This process is anticipated to be more challenging compared to previous instances, particularly considering the need for the European Parliament’s centrist parties to navigate the demands and potential objections raised by the hard-right European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), who are poised to exert their influence.

The forthcoming hearings and negotiations will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the European Commission and its capacity to effectively address the evolving challenges faced by the European Union.

Photo: European Parliament