Von der Leyen Secures Second Term as EU Commission President

Ursula von der Leyen was re-elected as European Commission President, secure 401 votes in favor, 284 against in secret ballot. She pledged to create a "true European Defence Union" and set a 90% emissions reduction target by 2040.

Re-election and Voting Process

Ursula von der Leyen re-elected as European Commission President
Secured 401 votes in favor, 284 against in secret ballot
Needed 360 votes for majority in 719-member European Parliament
Second five-year term as Commission President
Re-election ensures leadership continuity for the 27-nation bloc
Described victory as triumph for "pro-European, pro-Ukraine, and pro-rule of law" lawmakers

Key Policy Commitments and Priorities

Focus on prosperity, security, defense, and democracy
Pledged to create a "true European Defence Union"
Proposed 90% emissions reduction target by 2040
Promised new measures to help European industries stay competitive
Committed to addressing housing shortages across Europe
Pledged to appoint a commissioner for the Mediterranean region
Vowed to strengthen EU economy, police, and border agencies
Emphasized tackling migration issues
Promised to address climate change while supporting farmers
Pledged continued support for Ukraine

Political Support and Opposition

Backed by core coalition of centre-right, centre-left, and liberal groups
Greens joined the alliance after commitments on climate initiatives and social policies
Italy's far-right party voted against, disagreeing with the re-election process
Criticized Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán's visit to Russia as "appeasement mission"
Promised "no structured cooperation" with far-right groups
Faced opposition from some right-wing and eurosceptic parties

Challenges and Achievements

Led EU through Brexit, COVID-19 pandemic, and Russia's invasion of Ukraine
Championed the Green Deal for climate neutrality by 2050
Faced criticism over lack of transparency in COVID-19 vaccine negotiations
Emphasized need to address global economic competition and climate change
Highlighted importance of reducing EU dependencies on external factors

About European Commission

European Commission Established in 16 January 1958.
Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium
Five-year term

Role and Function:

Executive branch of the European Union

Proposes and enforces legislation, proposing new laws and regulations

Implements EU policies and allocating EU budget
Ensures the proper application of EU law

Composition:

27 Commissioners, one from each EU member state
Led by the President of the European Commission
Each Commissioner oversees specific policy areas

Selection Process:

President nominated by European Council and elected by European Parliament
Commissioners proposed by member states, approved by President-elect
Entire Commission subject to a vote of approval by European Parliament

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