EU’s von der Leyen vows to protect Europe’s values amid growing populist challenges
In a spirited address at the European People’s Party (EPP) conference in Bucharest, Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission (EU), strongly condemned the rising tide of populism, nationalism, and extremism from both the far right and left, asserting their threat to European unity and peace. As she received the EPP’s endorsement to lead the European Commission for another five-year term, von der Leyen emphasized the bloc’s commitment to safeguarding European values against those aiming to dismantle the shared European dream.
With 400 delegates rallying behind her candidacy and 89 dissenting, von der Leyen’s re-nomination reflects a significant, though not unanimous, support within the EU’s predominant centre-right political group. Her potential re-election comes at a crucial juncture, preceding an EU-wide parliamentary election set for June, pivotal for appointing the EU’s top officials, including the Commission’s presidency.
Should the EU’s 27 member countries approve, von der Leyen will continue to steer the bloc through pressing issues such as digital regulation, state aid policies, foreign investment screening, and the ongoing sanctions against Russia. In her campaign for a second term, von der Leyen committed to enhancing EU economies, addressing irregular immigration, boosting competitiveness, supporting farmers amidst rising living costs, and providing increased financial and military aid to Ukraine.
In her address, von der Leyen articulated the people’s concerns over prosperity, security, and democracy, reassuring that “Europe has your back” during challenging times. The conference also heard from Donald Tusk, the newly elected Polish Prime Minister, who echoed the sentiment that Europe is entering a new, potentially prewar epoch, marking the end of the postwar era’s “blissful calm.”
Reflecting on her father’s WWII experiences, von der Leyen highlighted the fragility of European peace and unity, reminding the audience of the importance of vigilance against hatred and extremism. With Europe at a “critical and dangerous juncture,” von der Leyen’s narrative underscored the stakes of the upcoming election, stressing the imperative to defend democracy against those seeking to undermine it.
Despite her robust defence of European values, von der Leyen faces criticism over the political feasibility of her Green Deal initiative and her stance on asylum-seekers, indicating a potential pivot to the right in search of broader electoral support. As the EU grapples with internal and external challenges, von der Leyen’s leadership will be pivotal in navigating the complex landscape of contemporary European politics.
