In this edition of our analysis, we focus on the significant political developments surrounding Ursula von der Leyen’s approval for a second term as President of the European Commission and the ongoing controversies related to Hungary’s child protection act. Von der Leyen’s reappointment came by a very narrow margin, securing just enough votes in the European Parliament to proceed with her new Commission. This approval marks a critical moment for European politics, as the new Commission is expected to address pressing issues and initiatives that have been stalled during the previous term. During this session, we hear from prominent Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), including Tomas Tobe from the European People’s Party, Kira Peter-Hansen from the Greens, and Raquel García Hermida van der Walle from Renew Europe, who share their perspectives on the implications of the Commission’s renewal.
The successful vote in Strasbourg allows Von der Leyen’s team to transition into action promptly—an urgent necessity as the political landscape evolves. Raquel García Hermida van der Walle expressed her satisfaction with the coalition agreement reached among the groups, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to tackle challenges ahead. She highlighted the urgency of the situation, recalling how previous U.S. political events unfolded while European leaders were still preparing for their agenda. Both García Hermida and Tomas Tobe stressed the need for the new Commission to hit the ground running, underscoring a collective expectation from European citizens for meaningful progress in governance and policy-making within the first 100 days of operation.
Despite the change in leadership, the European Commission faces familiar challenges that have persisted throughout recent years. A key issue driving discussions this week is the treatment of LGBTQI communities within Hungary, which has sparked significant backlash and debate across Europe. The Hungarian National Assembly’s 2021 amendments to its child protection law have drawn criticism from both the European Commission and several member states who argue these laws contravene fundamental EU values regarding the protection of human rights and equality. The situation has become emblematic of the wider political struggles within the EU relating to human rights issues, specifically targeting marginalized communities.
Garcia Hermida van der Walle, reflecting on this issue, condemned the use of LGBTQI populations as political scapegoats by governments seeking electoral gains. She articulated the problematic nature of leveraging discriminatory practices as a strategy for success in elections, highlighting that this creates a toxic political environment that undermines inclusivity. These comments resonate with the broader concerns shared by many MEPs regarding the rise of populist policies that vilify minority groups. As the Commission transitions into its duties, addressing such violations of European values is expected to be a priority.
Furthermore, Tomas Tobe joined the conversation emphasizing the importance of the upcoming Commission’s actions to counteract discrimination and support equal rights throughout the EU. He pointed out that European citizens have made their expectations clear through successive elections, advocating for a strong commitment to defend the rights of all, irrespective of sexual orientation or identity. Tobe’s remarks underscore the responsibility of the European Union in maintaining a unified stance against anti-LGBTQI rhetoric and policies, especially in member states that diverge from EU principles.
In conclusion, the recent developments in the European Parliament and the contentious atmosphere surrounding Hungary’s legislation illustrate a significant moment of both opportunity and challenge for Ursula von der Leyen and her new European Commission. As they embark on this new chapter, the commitment to uphold EU values in protecting individual rights and fostering inclusivity will be crucial. With the support of an engaged and diverse group of MEPs, the Commission has the potential to influence a positive trajectory in European politics amidst existing tensions. The next steps taken in addressing these issues will not only resonate within Hungary but will also have lasting implications for the EU’s integrity and credibility on the global stage.
