The European Parliament's primary political factions on Wednesday reached a significant agreement to confirm the new European Commission, successfully ending what had been a week-long standoff threatening to disrupt the approval process. This collaboration involved the leading parties: the center-right European People's Party (EPP), the center-left Socialists and Democrats (S&D), and the centrist Renew Europe.
Under this new deal, Ursula von der Leyen's proposed Commission team is on track for parliamentary confirmation as early as next week, paving the way for its official start by December. "There is a deal," confirmed a spokesperson for the Socialists, with additional details to follow.
The approval process hit roadblocks last week due to disagreements among lawmakers about several key nominees. Tensions rose over Italy's Raffaele Fitto, of the right-wing Brothers of Italy party, receiving a vice-presidency. Fitto's affiliation had raised eyebrows, particularly since his European Conservatives and Reformists group did not back von der Leyen’s reappointment.
To add to the complexity, criticism also swirled around the nomination of Hungary's Oliver Varhelyi for the Commission, as he is closely associated with Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has faced scrutiny for his political maneuverings. The right-wing factions countered with opposition against Spain's Teresa Ribera, nominated for the influential role of European competition chief, who bears the overarching responsibility for environmental policies.
Ribera's nomination garnered resistance due to accusations of negligence during deadly floods in Valencia, prompting opponents to demand she testify before the Spanish parliament prior to the Commission's confirmation.
Following intense negotiations, groups aligned with Renew and the Socialists sought firm commitments from the EPP to uphold a “pro-European” majority within Parliament after recent months where they perceived the EPP had occasionally aligned with far-right interests. A Renew representative confirmed their leaders had secured promises to collaborate on policy agendas.
A draft agreement outlined the commitments made by the three factions, indicating their intention to “cooperate” on pressing European priorities such as reinforcing defense policies and boosting economic competitiveness.
Later discussions within Parliament sought to finalize the confirmation vote for Ribera, Fitto, Varhelyi, and four additional nominees scheduled for deliberation.
The political maneuvering continues to highlight the fragile dynamics of these coalitions, especially between the Popular and Socialist parties, which underpin the majority. Dissonance within the ranks became apparent almost immediately after drafting the agreement, as disagreements arose concerning the allocation of responsibilities among nominees.
Despite the fraught negotiations, optimism persisted among EU officials who expressed the need for the Commission to be operational rapidly due to rising geopolitical challenges. With the potential for internal fractures within these groups, the balance of power remains delicate.
The latest twists reflect underlying tensions as various factions strive for influence and control. The anticipated vote for the entire team of candidates, including von der Leyen, is projected for November 27, with the Commission expected to officially start its term on December 1.
While the EPP emerged displaying strength from this negotiation, securing many of its aims, the broader picture involves nuanced alliances and complex relationships moving forward. With international crises looming large, the success of these coalition agreements and the efficacy of the incoming Commission are more pivotal than ever for European stability.
