EU"s von der Leyen strengthens power amid rising far right challenges

Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, has recently solidified her control over the EU, but faces significant challenges in her second term. During a private meeting with European Parliament members, she withheld job announcements for her incoming commission, only to reveal them shortly after, leading to frustration among MEPs. This move reflects her strategy of consolidating power, which has included the departure of her critic, French commissioner Thierry Breton, who resigned after being sidelined in the nomination process. Von der Leyen has also pushed for female candidates for commissioner positions, rewarding compliant countries with key roles while penalizing those that did not comply. Her leadership style has been characterized by decisive, unilateral decision-making, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which she navigated with a small team. However, as she enters her second term, she faces a range of pressing issues, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and the challenge of meeting greenhouse gas reduction targets. The rise of far-right parties within the European Parliament complicates her ability to pass legislation, as she now has to contend with a significant number of MEPs who are hostile to the EU. The coalition of pro-EU parties that previously supported her will be tested, as the political landscape shifts. With her new commission expected to take office around December 1, the effectiveness of her leadership will be closely scrutinized. Overall, von der Leyen's ability to navigate these challenges will determine not only her political future but also the direction of the EU amidst rising populism and external pressures.