Following the EP elections in June, the EU’s institutional transition continues with the formation of the new College of Commissioners: Ursula von der Leyen was re-elected as Commission President, Member State governments nominated their candidate Commissioners, and the President-elect announced how she intends to setup the College. Before they can finally get to work, however, the EP needs to check whether the nominees are fit for the job.
We will meet in person on 15 November at CEPS – just a couple of days after the last hearing – to discuss how these hearings went and whether the EP succeeded in weeding out weak candidates. What (party-political) dynamics are at play and is this process an effective way of exchanging out those not qualified for their prospective position?
Delving further, we’ll take a close look at the new College setup. Who will work on what and is this a meaningful structure? What can we learn from past Colleges? Is there an alternative to heavy centralisation and what is the fate of the principle of Collegiality? Is the increasing influence of EP political groups over not only the Commission’s agenda but also the College structure a healthy development?
The event will be followed by a members-only lunch from 12:15 to 13:00.
