Roberta Metsola, a Maltese MEP, has been re-elected as the president of the European Parliament for another two and a half years, receiving a significant majority of votes. In her role, Metsola aims to bridge the gap between people's expectations of Europe and what can be achieved.
She emphasizes the importance of a strong parliament that advances the laws desired and needed by citizens. Metsola also stresses the need to hold other institutions accountable and advocates for the rule of law and unwavering support for Ukraine.
Alongside Metsola, two German politicians, Sabine Verheyen and Katarina Barley, were elected as vice presidents. The European Parliament also voted for the 14 vice presidents, including Barley and Verheyen, who received strong support.
The role of the EP President is largely ceremonial, with limited influence on EU policy processes. The re-election of Metsola as president is part of a larger package of appointments for top EU positions agreed upon by EU leaders after the elections.
Ursula von der Leyen, the current European Commission president, is seeking a second term but faces challenges in securing enough votes. Some members from center-right, socialist, and liberal groups have already announced that they will not support her.
Von der Leyen has tried to broaden her support by reaching out to right-wing and Green parties, but this strategy has faced criticism and may unite the far-right against her. MEPs must evaluate if von der Leyen embodies a clear political vision capable of addressing the EU's challenges.
