Group leaders in the European Parliament have reached an agreement on the appointment of new European Commissioners. This agreement between the Social Democrats (S&D), Christian Democrats (EPP) and Liberals (Renew) continues their cooperation in the previous term of office.
The agreement came after weeks of negotiations, during which the wishes and conflicting interests had to be carefully weighed. The negotiations mainly revolved around a few controversial candidates, such as the radical right Italian minister Fitto and the candidate of Russia-friendly Hungary.
S&D and Renew blocked the approval of six candidates from the EPP house because they first demanded guarantees from the EPP group that they would not make voting agreements with the right-wing and far-right groups in the European Parliament in the coming years. Only a non-binding formulation was produced on this.
An important outcome is that Lithuania, in the person of Andrius Kubilius, will receive the new Defense portfolio. This is a strategic choice, given the geopolitical tensions with Russia and the role of the EU in supporting Ukraine. Slovenia will provide Marta Kos, who will be responsible for the expansion of the EU, with a focus on candidate countries such as Ukraine, Moldova and the Western Balkans.
Poland's Piotr Serafin will take on the crucial Budget portfolio. This is of great importance, as the EU involves complex negotiations on the multiannual budget. Poland, as the largest country in the EPP, has a strong position in this discussion, while southern European countries, such as Spain and Italy, have been given prominent economic portfolios.
For Hungary, the consequences are less favorable. Olivér Várhelyi, candidate of Viktor Orbán, will be responsible for health care and animal welfare. Parts of that package have been transferred to other commissioners. This is interpreted by analysts as a signal of distrust towards 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 start work on 1 December.