EU Parliament Faces Political Showdown over Vice-President Appointments

EU Parliament Faces Political Showdown over Vice-President Appointments

elpais.com

EU Parliament Faces Political Showdown over Vice-President Appointments

Hearings for the next European Commission vice-presidents are underway, sparking political tensions and strategic alliances among European political groups.

Spanish
Spain
Germany European UnionFranceNegotiationsEuropean PoliticsParliamentPolitical AppointmentsCommission
European ParliamentEuropean CommissionEuropean People's Party (Epp)Renew EuropeS&D
Teresa RiberaRaffaele FittoUrsula Von Der LeyenGiorgia MeloniIratxe García
What is Ursula von der Leyen's role and strategy in this process?
Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, is working to ensure the quick approval of her team to avoid a political blockage. To achieve this, she's employing strategies such as bundling the approvals of multiple candidates and canceling her attendance at the COP29.
What are the concerns of the socialist group regarding the confirmation process?
The socialists are concerned about linking the approval of Teresa Ribera with Raffaele Fitto's nomination and worry about Ribera's approval prospects, emphasizing the importance of her confirmation for the timely launch of Von der Leyen's team.
Who are the main candidates facing scrutiny in the European Parliament hearings?
The European Parliament is holding hearings for six candidates for vice-president of the European Commission, including Spain's Teresa Ribera. The process has been highly political, with negotiations among different political groups leading to concerns about potential crises.
What are the main political controversies surrounding the vice-presidential candidacies?
The hearings are particularly focused on Raffaele Fitto, nominated by Italy's Giorgia Meloni, and Teresa Ribera. Fitto's nomination has sparked controversy among liberal and social democratic groups in the Parliament, while Ribera faces scrutiny over her handling of a disaster in Valencia.
What political strategies are being employed to ensure the approval of specific candidates?
The process involves a strategic alliance between the European People's Party (EPP) and far-right groups to ensure the approval of their candidates. This raises concerns about the influence of these groups in shaping the future leadership of the European Commission.