Von der Leyen first despatched a letter to the heads of presidency, asking them to appoint each a person and a girl. After it turned out that many of the heads of presidency had nonetheless solely nominated a person, the fee president urged a variety of member states to take action. Because of that motion, the variety of feminine candidates has elevated, Von der Leyen mentioned Wednesday throughout a press convention. Her efforts are “subsequently completely price it,” mentioned the politician. “The method continues,” she added.
“My expertise is that when you don’t ask for it, you don’t get it both. We should have the ability to stability variety. A form of illustration of what the European Union is, who the individuals of the European Union are. And half of the individuals within the European Union are ladies.”
It’s unsure whether or not the brand new European Fee can begin a five-year time period on November 1. Within the corridors of Brussels, there’s speak of a one-month delay. That is denied by a fee spokesman.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has invited Von der Leyen to current her proposal for the composition of the brand new fee on September 11. There’ll then be a gathering of Metsola, the primary vp and the group leaders of the European Parliament. Von der Leyen has accepted that invitation, however it’s unclear whether or not she is going to then include an entire record of candidates and portfolio distribution.
The candidate commissioners are being grilled throughout hearings by the European Parliament about their capabilities and plans for the coverage areas assigned to them. It isn’t but clear when these hearings will start.
For present Dutch Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra (Local weather), Von der Leyen reportedly has the Commerce portfolio in thoughts, the German newspaper Die Welt reported Wednesday.
The Netherlands didn’t should nominate a person and a girl, as a result of Hoekstra will once more change into Commissioner in accordance with the Dutch cupboard. That exception applies to all member states which have re-nominated their sitting commissioner.
