Von der Leyen Prepares for Challenging State of the Union Address Amidst EU Divisions
Facing a deeply polarized European Parliament and growing discontent with her leadership, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is preparing to deliver her annual State of the Union address today. The speech,traditionally marking the resumption of EU work after the summer recess,is anticipated to focus on the need for swift action and unity to defend European values in a turbulent global landscape.
Von der Leyen has been actively engaging with leaders of political groups in advance of the address, particularly focusing on maintaining the support of the European People’s Party (PPE), Socialists, Liberals, and Greens – the core coalition that brought her to power. While the European Conservative and Reformist (ECR) group has contributed to some initiatives, support from nationalist parties remains absent.
Key policy areas expected to be addressed include the green Deal, with von der Leyen signaling her commitment to climate action in pre-speech communications, referencing recent natural disasters and wildfires across Europe.
The EU’s position on the conflict in Gaza and ongoing trade disputes are also high on the agenda. The commission acknowledges widespread dissatisfaction with the EU’s stance on the Middle East, but points to divisions within the European Council as the primary obstacle to a unified response, hindering the possibility of unanimity or even a qualified majority.
Regarding trade duties, the Commission maintains its position that the agreement reached with the United States on August 1st represents the best possible outcome, despite concerns from within the Parliament. EU Commissioner Maros Sefcovic recently confirmed that Washington is implementing both exemptions and a 15% tariff on automobiles. Though, this has not quelled criticism, particularly from Socialist members like Stefano Bonaccini, who stated the agreement is “not fair” and requires modification.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has indicated that Parliament is not seeking a “Christmas list” of promises from von der Leyen, but rather a thorough discourse on the EU’s role in the world.
The President is expected to reiterate her commitment to defence, continued support for Ukraine, and initiatives to boost European competitiveness through deregulation. A key challenge will be addressing the slow implementation of recommendations from the Draghi Report on competitiveness. A study by the European Policy Innovation Council reveals that only one in ten recommendations from the report have been implemented to date, prompting potential reflection within the Commission.
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