EU Affairs Minister Slams von der Leyen’s Leadership, Warns of Oligarchy
Minister of EU Affairs János Bóka has raised concerns about the future political direction of the European Union, warning that it may be determined by a European oligarchy that marginalizes those outside its circle and questions their Europeanism.
Bóka criticized the election of Ursula von der Leyen as Commission President, pointing out that she was supported by Liberals and Greens who experienced losses in the European elections. He noted that von der Leyen rejected collaborating with conservative groups like the ECR and the PfE, leading to a potentially unstable political platform for the European Commission in the coming years.
The Minister highlighted that von der Leyen’s program focuses on competitiveness, defense policy strengthening, and agricultural policy reform, which align with the EPP and its right-wing factions, despite her primary support coming from left-leaning parties. He expressed concern that the Commission under von der Leyen is becoming increasingly party-political, with certain political forces being targeted for politicization.
Regarding EU policies, Bóka emphasized a trend towards internalization and federalism, pointing out von der Leyen’s plans to create a European investigative authority and a European border guard. These steps indicate a strong federalist ambition, which may face resistance from member states.
Bóka warned that a European oligarchy’s cooperation could shape the EU’s political direction, leading to the marginalization and exclusion of voices outside this circle from European discourse. He stressed the importance of including diverse perspectives in European political dialogue to prevent delegitimization and exclusion.
The Minister’s remarks underscore the complexity and challenges facing the European Union as it navigates political differences and strives to maintain unity and inclusivity in decision-making processes.
