European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has been diagnosed with severe pneumonia, prompting her to cancel all her engagements for the next two weeks, her office announced on Friday.
Stefan De Keersmaeker, the spokesperson for the European Commission, confirmed the news earlier today, stating, "The president has canceled her external engagements for the first two weeks of January due to severe pneumonia." This unfortunate health setback means von der Leyen will miss several important events, including a scheduled speech in Lisbon and the inauguration of Poland's EU presidency.
"She is dealing with severe pneumonia," De Keersmaeker added. Details surrounding the cause of her illness have not been disclosed, but it is clear her condition necessitates rest and recovery.
Von der Leyen, who is 66 years old, only recently embarked on her second five-year term heading the EU's executive body—a role she has held since 2019. Her absence from major events not only impacts her, but it also affects the European Commission's agenda during this period. The spokesperson noted, "These appointments will take place at a later stage," hinting at future rescheduling.
The cancellation of appointments includes her expected presence at the launch of Poland's six-month rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, which is significant as Poland has recently taken over this leadership role.
Pneumonia is known to cause flu-like symptoms such as cough and fatigue, often requiring considerable recovery time. Those who are older or have weakened immune systems may find themselves needing additional time to heal, underlining the careful attention von der Leyen must give to her health at this time.
Fortunately for the EU, von der Leyen is not wholly incapacitated; she will be working from her home city of Hanover, staying connected with her team to manage her duties as much as her condition allows. Still, the absence of her physical presence at key meetings can alter the momentum of EU decision-making processes.
The Commission has not established an official succession plan for such situations, though von der Leyen has indicated previously the role of First Vice President could be assumed by Teresa Ribera, the climate chief. This lack of protocol for continuity raises questions about the Commission's stability during her recovery period.
The political ramifications of her absence are yet to be fully understood, yet they arrive at a sensitive time for the EU as it navigates numerous challenges, from economic recovery post-pandemic to environmental policies and the political climate across member states. Her leadership during these times has been pivotal, and her absence may create temporary disruptions.
Public reaction to the announcement has been primarily concerned; many citizens are hoping for her swift recovery. EU officials and citizens alike recognize the importance of her leadership roles, particularly with the implementation of new policies and agreements amid pressing global issues.
The Commission assures the public they will continue operations and processes as effectively as possible during von der Leyen's recovery. Nonetheless, her absence will likely be felt as she misses out on fostering relationships with fellow leaders and addressing pressing matters directly.
Ursula von der Leyen's health has become not only her personal challenge but also presents broader questions about leadership continuity and the importance of health preparedness for world leaders. The attention on her situation sheds light on how positions of power are often influenced by the health and well-being of those who occupy them.
The hope remains for Ursula von der Leyen to regain her health swiftly so she may resume her duties and continue to lead the European Commission through what are undeniably tumultuous times.
This incident serves as a reminder of the human aspect of leadership roles, emphasizing the balance between the responsibilities of public office and the necessity for personal health. The road to recovery for von der Leyen will be closely monitored, as her leadership is integral to the EU's future.