EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has unveiled the nominees for the new European Commission, the executive branch of the European Union. Each EU member state is represented by one commissioner in the 27-member body, following negotiations with member states and political groups in the European Parliament.
Von der Leyen emphasized that the new team will prioritize addressing climate change, security, and competition challenges. Notably, 40% of the commissioners will be women, with 4 out of 6 executive vice presidents also being female.
For the first time, a Defense Commissioner has been appointed, reflecting Europe’s focus on defense production and investment amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Former Lithuanian Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius will serve as Commissioner for Defence and Space, overseeing the European Defence Union and industrial capacity.
This 27-member team functions like a cabinet, with commissioners responsible for specific policy areas. Their appointments must be approved by the European Parliament.