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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has revealed the team that will lead the EU’s most powerful institution for the next five years, with a clear focus on addressing climate change, geopolitical challenges from the war in Ukraine, and rising competition from China.
Key Appointments:
- Andrius Kubilius from Lithuania becomes the EU’s first Defense Commissioner, aiming to bolster Europe’s military manufacturing in response to Russian aggression.
- Teresa Ribera of Spain, named Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just, and Competitive Transition, will focus on decarbonizing Europe’s economy while maintaining competitiveness.
- Kaja Kallas of Estonia, tasked with overseeing Foreign and Security Policy, will navigate the bloc’s geopolitical challenges, including Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Priorities for the New Team:
Von der Leyen emphasized that climate change, security, and competitiveness form the core of the new Commission’s agenda, reflecting the increased urgency of these issues since her last term. With the ongoing war in Ukraine and growing concerns about global competition, the Commission will drive efforts to balance environmental goals with industrial growth. “Climate change is the major backdrop of all what we are doing,” von der Leyen remarked, underscoring the broader context for her new policies.
Climate Action and Economic Transition
The EU’s ambition to lead on climate action remains central to the Commission’s agenda. Von der Leyen reiterated that climate change is the “major backdrop” for all EU initiatives, underscoring its role in shaping the Commission’s priorities. Leading the charge is Spain’s Teresa Ribera, who has been appointed Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just, and Competitive Transition. Ribera’s portfolio includes ensuring that Europe stays on track to meet its European Green Deal goals, which aim to decarbonize and industrialize the economy simultaneously.
“She will guide the work to ensure that Europe stays on track for its goals set out in the European Green Deal. And that we decarbonize and industrialize our economy at the same time,” von der Leyen said.
A Leaner, More Integrated Structure:
Von der Leyen also highlighted a more streamlined structure within the Commission, with six Executive Vice-Presidents (four women and two men) overseeing key areas such as prosperity, security, and democracy. Each portfolio, ranging from defense to clean energy, reflects a shift in priorities due to the EU’s evolving challenges.
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Von der Leyen’s team now faces parliamentary approval, with a mix of familiar faces and new entrants aiming to tackle the EU’s biggest issues, including economic stability, global competitiveness, and sustainable growth.
View Ursula von der Leyen’s Full Letter