The Rise of the Dark Horse: Ursula von der Leyen
German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen emerged last week as the surprise choice of EU leaders for the next European Commission President. Von der Leyen, who is deemed a life-long high achiever, is now facing an uphill battle to receive the support of the European Parliament. But who is von der Leyen? With many […]
Europe’s New Leaders?
Europe is a step closer to finalising the cast of leaders that will steer the European Union’s institutions through the next five-year period. Several of the names agreed this week by the European Council (consisting of EU government leaders) came as a surprise to many but is illustrative of the complexity of finding consensus within […]
Introducing the non-Spitzenkandidat: Michel Barnier
You’ve heard of Brexit. You may have also heard of Michel Barnier, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator. Perhaps less apparent is the possibility that he could replace Jean-Claude Juncker and become the next Commission President. Although he isn’t a formal candidate, he has spent the last three years touring European capitals and has become perhaps […]
Introducing Spitzenkandidat: Margrethe Vestager
Europe has now voted and Brussels will be getting on with the business of appointing a replacement for Jean-Claude Juncker, the President of the European Commission. One of the most prominent and successful Commissioners in the Juncker term has been the plucky Dane in charge of Europe’s competition agenda. Having shown aptitude and resilience on […]
Introducing Spitzenkandidat: Manfred Weber
As Europe gears up for a new Commission President, could the European People’s Party candidate replace Jean-Claude Juncker in July? Read more from the team at FTI Consulting in Germany giving you insight to what is on the political agenda. Please download the full article to read further.