What are the priorities of the new European Commission?

Today, Ursula von der Leyen chaired the first meeting of the new College of Commissioners. Her team of 26 new Executive Vice-Presidents, Vice-Presidents and Commissioners are ready to deliver on her promises for a Union that strives for more.

Her first few days in office are already marked by strong European ambitions on climate policy. Von der Leyen’s first trip as Commission President was to the COP25 meeting in Madrid on Monday. Her first communication will be on the European Green Deal, already next week.

Digital is the second key priority for this new Commission. Not only in their communication – each member of von der Leyen’s team published a video for their first day in office – but also for future policy action. For example, the updated mission letter for Thierry Breton now foresee a European strategy on data – key for all sectors.

Last and certainly not least, international relations and trade will be a core topic for the ‘geopolitical’ Commission. Beyond the highly sensitive negotiations on the future UK-EU relationships, expectations are high on a possible European approach to relations with the US, China, Russia, the African continent, and many more.

Here at FH, we are curious to see how this ending Year of Change will turn into actions. We will certainly continue to keep you updated.