Growing Opposition to Italy’s Executive VP Role in EU Commission

Opposition is mounting against European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's proposal to appoint Italy's Rafaelle Fitto as an executive vice-president. The Greens and Social Democrats have joined the liberal Renew group in expressing their discontent, arguing that Fitto's affiliation with the conservative European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group undermines the pro-European coalition that supported von der Leyen's election. Thierry Reintke, co-chair of the Greens, emphasized that such a nomination would shift the Commission's political stance to the right, which contradicts the democratic values they uphold. The Social Democratic group echoed these concerns, warning that appointing a commissioner from the ECR could jeopardize von der Leyen's support. They criticized the potential disregard for the Spitzenkandidaten process and the implications for gender balance within the Commission. The S&D group highlighted that this move could alienate progressive factions, which are crucial for maintaining a balanced and inclusive leadership. In contrast, the conservative European People’s Party (EPP) has expressed support for Italy's prominent role in the Commission. EPP Leader Manfred Weber noted the electoral success of Italian leaders and advocated for a strong Italian presence in the EU's executive branch. Fulvio Martusciello, representing Forza Italia in the European Parliament, confirmed von der Leyen's plans for an executive vice-presidency focused on economic affairs, despite the ECR's exclusion from the pro-European majority. The situation presents a significant challenge for von der Leyen, who has pledged not to align with far-right groups. The growing opposition from pro-European parties raises questions about her ability to implement her strategy and maintain a cohesive Commission amid diverging political ideologies.