The European Parliament has settled on the appointments for the new EU Commission, set to commence on December 1st under President Ursula von der Leyen. Despite controversial debates, party leaders agreed on several key figures for top positions. Raffaele Fitto from Italy's right-wing Brothers of Italy party will become Vice President for Cohesion and Reforms. Teresa Ribera, hailing from Spain, will oversee Competition Policy and the Green Transition.
The selections have not been without controversy. The inclusion of figures like Fitto and Oliver Varhelyi, an associate of Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban, has sparked debate. Varhelyi's role has been limited due to his contentious background. Meanwhile, the appointment of Ribera faced criticism due to accusations of inadequate response to floods in Valencia. Nonetheless, political factions defended the compromise, with figures like Manfred Weber and Iratxe García endorsing the final lineup.
The recent European elections saw a shift toward the right, with right-wing parties gaining ground in several EU nations, including Austria and France. As a result, the new Commission reflects a mix of political perspectives, from conservatives to socialists and liberals, striving to maintain balance and address the pressing challenges facing the EU.
Amidst these political developments, Ursula von der Leyen showcased her medical skills by assisting a passenger during a flight, highlighting her multifaceted expertise and dedication. As the new Commission prepares to take office, it faces the task of navigating the complex political landscape of the European Union.
