Ursula von der Leyen has successfully secured a second term as President of the European Commission, marking a significant victory for the German politician and the European Union's executive branch. In a secret ballot held in Strasbourg on July 18, 2024, von der Leyen garnered 401 votes from Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), comfortably exceeding the 361 votes needed for re-election. This result demonstrates a strong mandate for her leadership and policy agenda for the next five years.
Von der Leyen's re-election comes at a crucial time for the European Union, as it faces numerous challenges both internally and externally. In her speech to MEPs prior to the vote, she emphasized the importance of defending democracy against threats from demagogues and extremists and pledged to work with all the democratic forces in the Parliament. Her focus on European defense, increased military spending, and commitment to climate targets resonated with many lawmakers, contributing to her successful bid for a second term.
The support for von der Leyen crossed party lines, with backing coming from her own center-right European People's Party (EPP), as well as the Socialists & Democrats, the liberal Renew group, and the Greens. However, her re-election was not without opposition. Far-right groups, including the newly formed Patriots for Europe, strongly opposed her candidacy. Notably, members of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party revealed they had not supported von der Leyen, citing a conflict with their principles.
Von der Leyen's victory was warmly received by several European leaders. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hailed it as a clear sign of our ability to act in the European Union, especially in difficult times. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof and French President Emmanuel Macron also expressed their support, emphasizing the importance of von der Leyen's leadership in addressing Europe's challenges. Even beyond the EU, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer indicated his eagerness to work closely with the re-elected Commission President.
As head of the EU's executive branch, von der Leyen will continue to play a crucial role in setting the EU's policy agenda, political direction, and priorities. Her re-election comes alongside other key appointments in EU leadership, including António Costa as head of the European Council and Kaja Kallas as the EU's foreign policy chief. These appointments collectively shape the direction of the European Union for the coming years.
Looking ahead, von der Leyen faces several pressing issues. She addressed concerns about a potential Donald Trump victory in the upcoming US presidential election, emphasizing the need for the EU to reduce its dependencies and build its own strength. This stance reflects a growing recognition within the EU of the need for greater strategic autonomy in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape.
Von der Leyen's second term will be closely watched as she navigates complex challenges facing the European Union. These include ongoing tensions with Russia, the need for economic recovery post-pandemic, climate change mitigation, and maintaining unity among member states on key issues. Her ability to build consensus and drive forward ambitious policies will be crucial in shaping the EU's trajectory in the coming years.
