A new set of faces are set to grace the highest rungs of the European Union’s bureaucracy. The election of May 2014 for the renewal of the European Parliament saw a strong showing for euroskeptic parties, so some delicate political maneuvering was required to maintain a strong central bloc between the two main parties: the Socialist and the European Popular Party (EPP). This is a new opportunity for the old continent to show that it is able to solve its problems without any external aid. It is also an occasion to change the international behavior of the Union and make it more effective with respect to many international crises – such as Ukraine, Syria and Iraq – which would require a stronger Europe rather than the rather flaccid one we have grown accustomed to.
Women and men called to fill European top posts should be able to build consensus when it comes to particular issues, trying to promote integration and they need to be oriented toward a more a problem-solving approach. The economic crisis and the international disorder flaring up have shown that the world needs a stronger Europe, and this outcome can be only reached with the right people.
Are those chosen for the four key position at the top of the EU the right people at the right moment? The answer is difficult for now to answer, but one might imagine that they will try not to repeat past mistakes. Ultimately, the struggle will be between national interest and the interest of the Union. Whichever prevails will also mark the future of the Union.