EU Leadership Appointments: A Brewing Storm
The European Council is witnessing a heated debate over the appointment of senior EU officials, with Italy playing a crucial role. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the agreement reached by the three traditional European political families—popular, social democrats, and liberals—excluding the ultra-conservatives and her input. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, a key negotiator for the Popular Party, stated, 'No one respects Meloni and Italy more than I do,' in an attempt to mend ties and ensure Italy's participation.
Key Positions and Political Maneuvering
The proposed agreement includes Ursula von der Leyen continuing as President of the European Commission, Antonio Costa as President of the European Council, and Kaja Kallas as High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy. While the numbers seem sufficient to pass the decision in the European Council, a reinforced qualified majority is required, which could be hindered by opposition from Italy, Hungary, and other dissenting nations. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has been particularly vocal, calling the agreement a 'coalition of lies.'
Meloni's criticisms focus on the lack of transparency and inclusivity in the decision-making process. She argues that the process should start with defining objectives before appointing suitable leaders, rather than predetermined names. This sentiment is echoed by other leaders who feel sidelined by the traditional parties' negotiations. The tension is further heightened by the rivalry between France and Italy for key economic roles in the next European Commission, with both nations eyeing influential positions related to trade, competition, and industrial policy.
- The negotiations have been led by prominent figures from the three political families. For the Popular Party, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk have been at the forefront. The liberal negotiators include Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and French President Emmanuel Macron, while the socialist side is represented by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
- Despite the intense negotiations, some countries like the Czech Republic and Slovakia are willing to abstain if their interests are considered in the next College of Commissioners. However, Hungary and Italy remain firm in their opposition. Italian Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani has called for an agreement that includes Meloni's Conservatives, emphasizing that Italy's position is still undecided.
- The European Council's decision is crucial as it will shape the leadership and direction of the EU for the next five years. The ongoing negotiations and the final outcome will significantly impact the EU's internal dynamics and its approach to major issues like trade policy, competition, and industrial strategy.
