Centrist Coalition in European Parliament Agrees on New EU Commissioners

The agreement was made after weeks of negotiations, during which wishes and conflicting interests had to be carefully balanced. The talks mainly focused on some controversial candidates, such as the far-right Italian minister Fitto and the candidate from Russia-friendly Hungary.

S&D and Renew blocked the approval of six candidates from the EPP camp because they first demanded guarantees from the EPP faction that they would not make voting agreements in the European Parliament over the coming years with the right-wing and far-right groups. Only a non-binding formulation was ultimately agreed upon.

An important outcome is that Lithuania, represented by Andrius Kubilius, will take on the new Defense portfolio. This is a strategic choice given the geopolitical tensions with Russia and the EU's role in supporting Ukraine. Slovenia will provide Marta Kos, who will be responsible for EU enlargement, focusing on candidate countries like Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans. 

The Pole Piotr Serafin will handle the crucial Budget portfolio. This is highly significant as the EU faces complex negotiations over the multiannual budget. Poland, as the largest country within the EPP, holds a strong position in this debate, while Southern European countries such as Spain and Italy have simultaneously been granted prominent economic portfolios.

The consequences are less favorable for Hungary. Olivér Várhelyi, Viktor Orbán’s candidate, will be responsible for healthcare and animal welfare. Parts of that portfolio have nonetheless been transferred to other Commissioners. Analysts interpret this as a signal of mistrust toward the Hungarian government, which often clashes with the EU over democratic values and the rule of law. 

This agreement paves the way for a swift approval of the new Commission by the European Parliament next week in Strasbourg. The new Commission is expected to begin its work as of December 1.