Some MEPs had expressed criticism at the time concerning how the Commission handled billion-euro contracts, particularly because text messages between Von der Leyen and the head of pharmaceutical company Pfizer were not made public. The Commission states that it did not retain the messages.
The rebuking "slap on the wrist" comes on the eve of a crucial vote in the European Parliament regarding the possible reappointment of Von der Leyen. In October 2021, the Greens requested access to the COVID-19 vaccine contracts after it became apparent that Von der Leyen had personally been involved.
Two years ago, the European Ombudsman accused the Commission of maladministration because Brussels did not disclose the text messages with Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla. The New York Times has sued the Commission for failing to release the messages.
So far, the issue has had no impact on her candidacy, as she quickly gained the support of the main political groups, EPP, S&D, and Renew Europe. In recent days, Von der Leyen has also publicly sought support from the Greens. The Greens stipulate as a condition that the European Commission must not seek political support from far-right groups and that the Green Deal climate agreements are upheld, including in European agriculture.
The court ruling on the confidentiality of the COVID medicine deals now possibly presents a dilemma for the Greens. The European Parliament will debate and vote on Thursday (July 18) with Von der Leyen. The EU Court ruling will undoubtedly be addressed there as well.
The European Commission said in an initial response that it is studying the Court's rulings and their implications and reserves its legal options. The Commission may decide to appeal to the European Court of Justice.