Devendra Kumar
Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, has informed European leaders of her intention to run for a second five-year term, citing her desire to work towards a more powerful and integrated European Union. Von der Leyen believes her experience and continuity are essential in guiding the EU through the ongoing challenges and crises it faces, emphasizing the importance of stability and predictability. She has been in office since December 2019 and has been instrumental in shaping the EU’s response to global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the consequences of climate change.
During her first term, von der Leyen pushed for a more robust and sustainable economic policy, seeking to reduce the EU’s reliance on carbon-intensive industries and promote green investments. A key milestone was the signing of the European Green Deal, a comprehensive strategy aimed at making the EU carbon neutral by 2050. Despite facing challenges and criticism, von der Leyen remains popular among many European leaders and has a strong reputation as a skilled diplomat and mediator.
Several key EU leaders, including European Council President Charles Michel, have endorsed von der Leyen’s bid for a second term, praising her “outstanding leadership” and expressing confidence in her ability to continue driving forward EU priorities. The European Parliament has also expressed support for her candidacy, citing her commitment to European integration and her ability to work across party lines. However, not all EU leaders are convinced, and some have raised concerns about her handling of various issues, including the response to the Ukraine war and the bloc’s energy crisis.
Critics argue that von der Leyen’s willingness to compromise and negotiate has led to too many concessions to individual member states, undermining the EU’s cohesion and unity. Despite these challenges, von der Leyen remains determined to make history by securing a second term as EU President. She has promised to prioritize bolstering the EU’s economic resilience, strengthening its security and defense, and promoting closer ties with global partners. Von der Leyen acknowledges that the road ahead will be difficult but essential for the EU’s future, stressing the need for “strategic patience” and “perseverance.”
Ultimately, von der Leyen’s bid for a second term will depend on the support she receives from EU leaders and the European Parliament. If successful, she will become the first EU President to serve two consecutive terms, cementing her legacy as a pivotal figure in European politics. Von der Leyen’s determination to make history and her commitment to the EU’s goals make her a strong candidate for a second term, and her experience and leadership skills make her well-equipped to navigate the challenges facing the Union.