European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has laid out an ambitious agenda for her bid for a second term, focusing on strengthening Europe’s defense capabilities, addressing climate change, and maintaining support for Ukraine. In a speech to the European Parliament on July 18, 2024, von der Leyen emphasized that the decisions made by the European Union today will shape the world for the next 50 years.A cornerstone of von der Leyen’s vision is the creation of a ‘true European Union of Defense’ by 2029. This includes proposing a new Commissioner for Defense, investing in high-end defense capabilities such as a European air defense shield, and establishing a common defense market. She also plans to triple the number of European border and coast guards to 30,000.Von der Leyen didn’t shy away from addressing contentious issues, strongly criticizing Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s recent visit to Moscow. She characterized it as an ‘appeasement mission’ rather than a peace initiative, warning that Russia is betting on Western resolve weakening. This criticism received applause from EU parliamentarians.On climate action, von der Leyen proposed a ‘Clean Industrial Deal’ to reduce the EU’s dependence on Russian fossil fuels and set an ambitious goal to reduce CO2 emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels. She also emphasized the need for a new strategy for the agricultural sector and increased social dialogue within the EU.Von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine ‘for as long as it takes’ and expressed support for EU enlargement to include Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and Western Balkan countries. She also called for increased humanitarian aid to Palestine and stronger support for the Palestinian Authority.The European Parliament is set to vote on von der Leyen’s candidacy for a second term as head of the European Commission on Thursday, July 20, 2024.
Key points
- Von der Leyen proposes creating a ‘European Union of Defense’ by 2029, including a new Commissioner for Defense.
- She criticizes Hungarian PM Orbán’s Moscow visit as an ‘appeasement mission’.
- Von der Leyen sets goal to reduce CO2 emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels.
- She reaffirms EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and expresses support for EU enlargement.
