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The European Parliament has given its stamp of approval to Ursula von der Leyen’s new team, with 370 votes in favor, 282 against, and 36 abstentions . This milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter for the European Commission, with von der Leyen at the helm for her second term. The new team is expected to take office on December 1, 2024.
Glenn Micallef, a key member of the new team, will be responsible for the Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture, and Sport portfolio. This portfolio is crucial in promoting the well-being and development of young people, as well as fostering a sense of community and social cohesion through culture and sport.
Von der Leyen’s team has outlined an ambitious program, with a focus on competitiveness, sustainability, and security. The Commission’s first initiative will be a competitiveness compass, aimed at closing Europe’s innovation gap with the US and China .Other key priorities include implementing the European Green Deal, ensuring energy independence, and building a defense union in response to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The European Parliament will closely monitor the Commission’s commitments over the next five years, ensuring that they deliver on their promises and address the challenges facing Europe . With the new team in place, there is a renewed sense of optimism and determination to tackle the complex issues facing the European Union.
