Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has sharply criticized Ursula von der Leyen’s leadership as President of the European Commission, contending that her five-year tenure has been historically detrimental to the European Union (EU). His call for her replacement underscores a growing discontent within member states about the direction of EU policies and governance.
In an interview with the German media conglomerate Funke, Orban stated that the EU’s green transition initiatives have undermined economic and industrial interests across the bloc. He further criticized the migration policies implemented under von der Leyen’s administration, describing them as entirely ineffective. This sentiment echoes a broader narrative within Hungary, which has consistently opposed many EU-wide policies under Orban’s nationalist government.
Orban went as far as to label von der Leyen’s tenure as potentially the "worst" in EU history, citing a lack of significant accomplishments by the European Commission and the "Brussels elite." He emphasized the necessity for effective leadership within the EU, asserting that there is no shortage of capable politicians who could undertake this role more effectively. His comments come in the wake of European Parliament elections, which he argues reflect a public desire for change in Brussels.
The results of the recent elections highlighted a notable shift towards right-wing parties, particularly in major EU member states like Germany and France. Despite this shift, centrist parties, including von der Leyen’s European People’s Party (EPP), which secured 190 seats, managed to retain a majority in the European Parliament. Orban expressed dissatisfaction with the continuity of the ruling coalition, citing it as a structural issue that needs addressing.
As von der Leyen seeks a second term as European Commission president, she has declared her objective to rally a broad majority in support of a robust Europe and to maintain Brussels’ pro-Ukraine stance. Members of the European Parliament are scheduled to vote on the next Commission president on July 18, with von der Leyen needing to secure a majority of the Members of European Parliament (MEPs) to continue in her role.
Furthermore, Orban urged Europe to rejuvenate itself if it wishes to "keep pace with the Americans," lauding former US President Donald Trump for his peace-centric policies, noting that Trump did not start any wars during his tenure. Orban’s critique extends to the Western approach to the Ukraine conflict, particularly the provision of arms to Kiev, which he has persistently opposed.
Orban’s remarks encapsulate the divisions within the EU regarding its strategic direction and the effectiveness of its current leadership, spotlighting the growing call for more responsive and dynamic governance within the bloc.
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