Von der Leyen spoke on Monday afternoon at the annual conference of EU ambassadors in Brussels about the necessity for a change in the EU's foreign policy. She emphasized that the current geopolitical situation requires a revision of existing institutions and decision-making processes.
Von der Leyen questioned whether the political dependence on consensus and compromise helps or hinders the EU in making decisions. EU critics have long argued that the requirement for unanimity obstructs decisions on many issues. Using the delay problem, such as the blocking of a €90 billion loan to Ukraine by Hungary and Slovakia, she illustrated her point.
Global Stage
She stated that the EU must ask itself whether its systems are still effective in today's world and that radical changes are needed to strengthen the EU as a geopolitical player. Her call for reflection comes partly due to the rise of conflicts and wars, such as those in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Promotion
With her call, Von der Leyen is taking a preemptive stand ahead of the EU summit of heads of state and government in a week and a half. She stated that the EU can no longer withdraw from global challenges.
Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign affairs chief, supported this message and advocated for an accelerated enlargement of the EU to admit new member states such as Ukraine and Montenegro. Kallas views enlargement as crucial against the influence of Russia.
Authority
Von der Leyen's call is seen by critics as an attempt by the EU chief to gain authority over the EU's international position. This is mainly the domain of Foreign Commissioner Kallas. Moreover, support for Ukraine largely falls under other commissioners.
In light of the current military and economic conflicts, Von der Leyen argued that the EU must now more than ever stand up for its values and interests. She has also suggested that defense capabilities should be strengthened to respond adequately to external threats. Issues concerning defense in EU countries are mainly handled by the (NATO) Defense Ministers of the 27 EU countries.
Consequences
The recent escalation of the war in the Middle East has led, among other things, to increased energy prices, which directly impact European citizens and the economy. Von der Leyen spoke about the necessity to secure European energy supply and to mitigate the consequences of instability in the region.
Finally, Von der Leyen warned that the era of a single rule system is over. The EU must adapt its strategies to the complex reality of contemporary geopolitics to remain relevant and operational. This week in Strasbourg, she will also engage in debate about this with EU politicians in the European Parliament.