EU Lawmakers Target Von Der Leyen

BRUSSELS – European Union lawmakers cast a vote of confidence on Thursday regarding Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the EU’s executive body, while also backing a motion from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to potentially remove her.

This marks the first significant rebuke from the European Parliament in over ten years against the President of the European Commission, initiated by a faction of right-wing lawmakers. A two-thirds majority will be necessary for this motion to advance.

Although von der Leyen could face resignation if she loses, most political groups in Congress are expected to oppose the motion, effectively assuring her position. It’s likely she won’t be present for the vote in Strasbourg, France.

Accusations against her include alleged communication with the CEO of Pfizer, improper use of EU funds, and interference in elections in Germany and Romania.

Orbán expressed on Facebook that this vote represents a critical moment, contrasting what he calls the “Brussels elite” with those advocating for patriotism and common sense.

He stated, “President Madame, the essence of leadership is responsibility. It’s time to go!” Von der Leyen’s administration has often been at odds with Orbán’s nationalist agenda, particularly concerning democratic backsliding in Hungary, leading to the suspension of Hungary’s access to significant EU funds.

The criticisms of von der Leyen have been swift, especially considering her role in spearheading the EU’s vaccination efforts for about 450 million people during the pandemic.

Critics argue that some lawmakers are manipulating fundamental rights to push their agenda. The EU parliament transitioned into a more politically charged environment shortly after the last European elections, a little over a year ago.

The second-largest political faction, the Socialists and Democrats, have labeled the rebuke as a product of the EPP’s recklessness and duplicity.

During discussions on Monday, S&D leader Iratxe García Pérez addressed the EPP, noting that they had collaborated with far-right elements to reshape the agenda, ultimately blocking von der Leyen’s new commission and dismissing ethics committees aimed at tackling corruption.