European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has outlined a bold vision for her second term, aiming to solidify the European Union’s role on the global stage and address pressing challenges. In her bid for re-election, she has presented a comprehensive agenda that encompasses a range of key areas, including defence, economic policy, competitiveness, climate change, migration, and housing.
Defence and Security:
Von der Leyen has proposed the creation of a “true European Defence Union,” aimed at bolstering European security and fostering a single market for defence products and services. This initiative includes the appointment of a dedicated Defence Commissioner, responsible for coordinating efforts to strengthen Europe’s defence industrial base. To further solidify defence capabilities, she has also pledged to launch a European Air Shield and cyber defence initiatives. The Commission plans to present a White Paper on the Future of European Defence within its first 100 days in office. Additionally, the European police agency Europol will see its staff more than doubled.
Economic Policy and Competitiveness:
To stimulate economic growth and innovation, von der Leyen proposes the establishment of a European Savings and Investments Union, which will leverage private savings for investments in key areas such as clean technologies and digital transitions. A new European Competitiveness Fund, starting in 2028, will be created to invest in strategic technologies like Artificial Intelligence, space exploration, clean technologies, and biotechnology. This fund aims to support European projects of common interest and strengthen competitiveness.
Von der Leyen also advocates for a “Clean Deal Industrial Deal” to ensure the EU’s independence in green technologies and reduce reliance on imports, particularly from China. This deal aims to boost the share of renewables in EU electricity generation beyond the current 50% target. Additionally, the Commission plans to streamline financing for fast-growing companies and direct private investments towards green and digital transitions. The Public Procurement Directive will be revised to prioritize European products in strategic sectors.
In the realm of foreign economic policy, von der Leyen aims to forge partnerships for critical minerals, drive investment in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, and safeguard against technology leakage.
Climate Change and Energy:
Von der Leyen has proposed a legally-binding EU target to cut emissions by 90% by 2040, compared to 1990 levels. She intends to ensure that countries effectively implement existing CO2-cutting policies. While maintaining the ban on sales of new CO2-emitting cars by 2035, she has indicated a willingness to allow cars running on e-fuels to be sold after 2035.
To address the increasing impacts of climate change, von der Leyen plans to present a strategy to help countries adapt to worsening conditions, particularly in regions like Spain and Greece, which are experiencing severe drought and wildfires. Furthermore, the EU’s joint purchasing scheme for gas will be extended to include hydrogen and critical raw materials.
Migration:
The Commission proposes a threefold increase in the number of European Border and Coast Guards, bringing the total to 30,000. A new EU Visa Policy Strategy will be developed to enhance border security and migration management.
A dedicated Commissioner for the Mediterranean will be appointed, and a Pact for the Mediterranean will be established with countries in the region. Von der Leyen plans to introduce a new common approach to the return of migrants, with updated legislation aimed at speeding up and simplifying the process.
Other Policy Areas:
The Commission will appoint a Commissioner whose responsibilities will include housing, and a European Affordable Housing Plan will be introduced. A dedicated Commissioner for Enlargement will be appointed to facilitate the integration of candidate countries into the EU.
Von der Leyen’s ambitious agenda sets the stage for a second term focused on addressing key challenges and enhancing the European Union’s global standing.
