Germany’s Ursula von der Leyen appointed new President of EU Commission

Germany’s Ursula von der Leyen was appointed by European Union (EU) leaders as bloc’s next Chief Executive i.e. European Commission president. She will be replacing Jean-Claude Juncker.

About Ursula von der Leyen

The 60 year old, is the only minister who has been in Merkel’s government since German leader took office in 2005.

She is Chancellor Angela Merkel’s defense minister and fellow conservative party member.

She was backed by Angela Merkel but there was resistance to her nomination within the German coalition ending in her appointment as a compromise.

This would be 1st time a German holds top EU job since Walter Hallstein was head of Commission of European Economic Community more than 50 years ago.

Challenge Ahead: To navigate world full of bruising trade wars, renewed geopolitical tension around Iran, and calling for increased transparency and representation within EU itself.

About European Commission

It is an institution of European Union (EU) that was founded on 1 January 1958.

Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium

It is responsible for implementing decisions, proposing legislation, upholding EU treaties and managing day-to-day business of European Union.

Role of EU Commission President: heads executive branch, sets policy agenda and controls a cabinet of commissioners.

Month: Current Affairs - July, 2019