Maroš Šefčovič's Long Career in Brussels

Maroš Šefčovič, Slovakia’s long-serving European Commissioner, has become a notable figure in Brussels, having served under three different Commission presidents: José Manuel Barroso, Jean-Claude Juncker, and Ursula von der Leyen. Over his tenure, which spans more than 5,400 days, Šefčovič has been a reliable caretaker for various portfolios, stepping in during critical times such as Brexit and overseeing significant initiatives like the European Green Deal. His reappointment for an unprecedented fifth term positions him to potentially become the longest-serving European Commissioner in history. Currently, he ranks as the third longest-serving commissioner, with a chance to surpass the previous record held by Wilhelm Haferkamp, who served for 6,397 days from 1967 to 1985. If he maintains his position, Šefčovič is set to achieve this milestone on April 8, 2027. Since the inception of the European Commission in 1958, 209 individuals from 28 countries have held commissioner roles. The current Commission, led by von der Leyen, has been recognized for its gender balance, yet the upcoming term faces challenges in maintaining this representation. Despite calls for equity, many governments have yet to submit female candidates, with only four out of 18 countries nominating women for the commissioner posts. As Šefčovič continues his tenure, his experience and stability may play a crucial role in navigating the future challenges facing the European Union.