Ursula Von Der Leyenová

Ursula von der Leyenová is a German politician and physician who has served as the President of the European Commission since 2019. As the first woman to hold this prestigious position, she leads the executive branch of the European Union, responsible for proposing legislation, implementing EU policies, and managing the EU budget.

Born in Brussels, Belgium, in 1958, von der Leyenová is fluent in German, French, and English, reflecting her international upbringing. She comes from a prominent political family; her father, Ernst Albrecht, served as the Minister-President of Lower Saxony for fourteen years. She studied economics at the London School of Economics and then medicine at Hannover Medical School, eventually earning her doctorate in 1991.

Her political career began in the early 2000s. She joined the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and quickly rose through the ranks. Under Chancellor Angela Merkel, she held several ministerial posts, including Minister for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (2005-2009), Minister of Labour and Social Affairs (2009-2013), and Minister of Defence (2013-2019). As Germany’s first female Defence Minister, she oversaw significant reforms within the Bundeswehr, the German armed forces.

Von der Leyenová’s appointment as President of the European Commission in 2019 was somewhat unexpected. She was nominated by the European Council after the European Parliament rejected the initial candidate. Her confirmation required a narrow majority vote in the Parliament, highlighting the divisions within the EU at the time.

Since taking office, von der Leyenová has focused on several key priorities. The European Green Deal, aiming to make Europe climate neutral by 2050, is a cornerstone of her agenda. She has also championed the digital transformation of Europe, advocating for investments in technology and innovation. Furthermore, she has emphasized the importance of a stronger and more united Europe on the global stage, particularly in areas like trade and security.

Her leadership has been tested by numerous crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. During the pandemic, she oversaw the EU’s joint procurement of vaccines and the establishment of the Recovery Fund to support member states’ economies. In response to the war in Ukraine, she has been a strong advocate for sanctions against Russia and has worked to support Ukraine with humanitarian and financial aid.

Von der Leyenová’s presidency has been marked by both successes and challenges. She has faced criticism for the EU’s handling of the pandemic, as well as debates over the implementation of the Green Deal. However, she has also been praised for her strong leadership in navigating complex geopolitical situations and for her commitment to a more sustainable and resilient Europe. As she continues to lead the European Commission, her actions will have a profound impact on the future of the European Union and its role in the world.