Ursula von der Leyen Re-elected as European Commission President
EU Chief Manager Wins Backing from European Parliament
Promises New 'Defense Union' and Commitment to Climate Goals
STRASBOURG, July 18 (Reuters) – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has been re-elected for a second term. In her address to the European Parliament, she outlined her vision for a continental "defense union" and reaffirmed her commitment to Europe’s green transition, while also addressing the economic impact on industry.
Members of the European Parliament endorsed von der Leyen's bid for another five-year term with 401 votes in favor and 284 against in a secret ballot within the 720-member chamber.
Focus on Prosperity and Security :
In her Strasbourg address, von der Leyen emphasized a program centered on prosperity and security, shaped by the challenges of Russia's war in Ukraine, global economic competition, and climate change.
"The next five years will define Europe's position in the world for the next fifty years. It will decide whether we shape our own future or let it be shaped by events or by others," von der Leyen stated before the secret ballot on her nomination.
Commitment to the Green Deal :
She stressed the importance of maintaining the "Green Deal," a transformation of the EU economy to combat climate change, which was a crucial promise for Green legislators who joined center-right, center-left, and liberal groups in supporting her for the post.
Reiterating her support for Ukraine, von der Leyen declared that Europe’s independence was at stake and emphasized the need for increased investment in defense.
A European Defense Union :
A center-right former German defense minister, von der Leyen pledged to establish "a real European Defense Union," featuring major projects on air and cyber defense. This initiative drew criticism from the Kremlin, which accused the EU of a "militarization and conflict" attitude.
Von der Leyen also criticized Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s recent visit to Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow as a "settlement mission," garnering broad applause from legislators.
Traditionally, defense policy in Europe has been the domain of national governments and NATO. However, in light of Russia's attack on Ukraine and uncertainties about Europe's reliance on the US for security, especially if Donald Trump wins the U.S. presidential election in November, the European Commission is pushing for more joint European defense projects.
Climate Policies and Industrial Competitiveness :
Von der Leyen also promised a suite of climate policies, including a legally binding EU target to cut emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels. She pledged new measures to help European industries remain competitive while they invest in reducing emissions.
Green Support and Re-election Margin :
The Greens’ decision to join the informal coalition of parties supporting von der Leyen ensured a comfortable margin of victory. She needed 361 votes for a majority in the chamber. Her coalition of center-right, center-left, and liberals has 401 seats, though some members were expected to vote against her in the secret ballot.
Von der Leyen also promised tighter EU border controls and stronger police cooperation against crime.
Her re-election provides continuity in the European Union's key executive body during a time of external and internal challenges, including rising support for far-right and eurosceptic parties in the 27-country bloc.
Next Steps :
Soon, von der Leyen will propose her team of commissioners, who will undergo individual hearings from legislators before a final vote on the Commission as a whole later in the year.
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Additional reporting by Philip Blenkinsop, Andrew Gray, Foo Yun Chee, Jan Strupczewski, Marine Strauss, and Bart Meijer; Writing by Kate Abnett; Editing by Kirsten Donovan and Angus MacSwan.
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