EU Leadership Appointments Stir Controversy
A recent summit in Brussels has sparked intense debate over the appointments to the highest positions within the European Union (EU). The meeting, attended by leaders from the 27 member states, tackled a dense agenda that included Middle East issues, European defense financing, immigration, and the ongoing situation in Ukraine. However, the primary source of friction was the proposed appointments to key EU institutions.
Controversial Appointments
The German Ursula von der Leyen, affiliated with the European People's Party (EPP), is poised to be reappointed as Commission President. The Portuguese socialist Antonio Costa is set to become the President of the European Council, while Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, from the liberal Renew group, will be appointed as the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. These decisions were made by the leaders of the three major political families in the EU, who are the only ones capable of forming a majority.
Opposition and Criticism
Not all member states are on board with these appointments. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has openly criticized the method of these selections, describing it as a 'major mistake' for Europe. She argues that the decision-making process should be more inclusive and reflective of the citizens' directions, who are asking for a more concrete and less ideological Europe. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban have also expressed their discontent, with Orban calling the agreement 'shameful' and accusing the EPP of forming a coalition of lies with the left and liberals.
A Call for Inclusivity
Despite the tension, there are calls for inclusivity in the decision-making process. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte emphasized that Italy should feel well-represented in the new European Commission. Similarly, Manfred Weber, President of the EU People's Party, stressed the importance of including Italian interests in the EU appointments. The negotiations are ongoing, and the final decisions are yet to be made, with the spotlight firmly on how the EU will balance the interests of all 27 member states.
- The Financial Times has reported a growing rivalry between French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over a powerful vice-president position in the European Commission. Both leaders are vying for control over trade policy, competition, and industrial policy, areas in which Brussels has sole competence.
- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has reiterated that all 27 member states are equally important and that the European Council and member states must put forward a proposal that can count on the majority of the Parliament. This sentiment was echoed by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who emphasized that no decision would be made without the involvement of Prime Minister Meloni and other leaders during the European Council meeting.
- Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani has stated that Italy's position on the EU top jobs is still undecided and that negotiations have yet to begin. He expressed a favorable inclination towards the appointments but remains skeptical about the duration of the five-year term for the President of the European Council.
- Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, who is set to be appointed as the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has urged caution, stating that in politics, there can be surprises. She emphasized the need to not rush into conclusions.
