Evaluating Ursula von der Leyen’s Commissioners After One Year

The performance of the European Commission’s commissioners is under scrutiny as the team marks its first year under the leadership of President Ursula von der Leyen. With decision-making power largely centralized, the visibility of the commissioners often diminishes, leaving observers to question their influence and effectiveness within the EU’s executive branch.

One commissioner who was anticipated to challenge von der Leyen’s authority is Teresa Ribera from Spain. Ribera holds a significant portfolio overseeing climate transition and competition rules, which often puts her at odds with major US tech companies like Apple and Google. Despite expectations for her to be a vocal presence, her interventions have been limited. Notably, while she spoke out on the Gaza war, she refrained from publicly addressing a critical decision to impose a €2.9 billion fine on Google in September. Analysts suggest that this cautious approach may stem from the need to maintain a delicate relationship with the Trump administration during sensitive diplomatic times.

In a similar vein, Henna Virkkunen, the Finnish commissioner responsible for digital regulations, faces considerable challenges. She has found it necessary to navigate a politically charged atmosphere where US tech executives are resistant to EU regulations aimed at curbing illegal content on social media. Virkkunen has been criticized for the commission’s slow response to investigations concerning Elon Musk’s X platform, further complicating her position as a media spokesperson.

The current group of commissioners, known as a “college,” lacks some of the prominent figures that were part of von der Leyen’s first term, such as Thierry Breton and Margrethe Vestager. Their absence has been noted by diplomats and EU officials, who remark on the diminished presence of influential personalities capable of counterbalancing von der Leyen’s decisions.

Tension is evident in the relationship between von der Leyen and Kaja Kallas, the EU’s top representative for foreign affairs. Kallas, a former prime minister of Estonia, has made efforts to engage national governments on issues like a proposed €40 billion funding boost for Ukraine, but faced resistance from member states, indicating a potential disconnect between the commission and national interests.

Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, who oversees trade, has been managing complex relations between Europe and the US, particularly in light of trade war threats. His reputation as a problem-solver, earned through previous experience, will be tested as he navigates the intricacies of international trade amid political shifts.

On the other end of the spectrum is Olivér Várhelyi, Hungary’s commissioner, who is facing scrutiny due to allegations concerning espionage activities involving Hungarian diplomats during his tenure as the country’s representative in Brussels. Trust issues between him and von der Leyen could jeopardize his position if further revelations emerge contradicting his claims of ignorance regarding these matters.

The EU commissioner for justice, Michael McGrath, has started strong in his new role, gaining von der Leyen’s trust. As a former finance minister of Ireland, he is expected to tackle significant legislative challenges, including the introduction of stricter regulations for social media influencers with the upcoming Digital Fairness Act. This initiative is anticipated to draw resistance from major technology companies and will require careful navigation, particularly in light of potential scrutiny from US authorities.

As the commission progresses into its second year, the effectiveness and visibility of its members will continue to be closely monitored. The ability of these politicians to assert their influence in a tightly controlled environment will determine how well they can address pressing issues facing the European Union.