Report Claims Internal EU Friction Over Ursula von der Leyen’s Leadership Style

(MENAFN) European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is facing criticism from some EU officials over what they describe as an increasingly centralized and tightly controlled leadership approach, according to a Bloomberg report cited in media coverage.

The report portrays von der Leyen as having significantly strengthened her influence over the European Commission since taking office in 2019, shaping its response to major crises including the COVID-19 pandemic and the EU’s policy direction on Russia, as well as leading trade negotiations involving external partners.

According to EU officials quoted in the report, concerns have emerged that decision-making has become overly centralized, with some claiming that key internal processes and policy drafts receive limited consultation before being finalized.

One cited example involves internal strategy documents reportedly being presented late in the process to member states and the European Parliament, reducing the time available for deliberation and feedback.

Similar concerns were also raised regarding the preparation of the EU’s long-term budget, which reportedly involved limited early-stage consultation with member states, contributing to internal tensions over fiscal planning.

The report also suggests that some EU lawmakers and officials have called for stronger oversight mechanisms, while business stakeholders have expressed frustration that competitiveness concerns are not being sufficiently reflected in policy decisions.

Supporters of the Commission leadership argue that strong centralized coordination is necessary to manage crises and maintain unity among member states, particularly during periods of geopolitical and economic instability.

The debate highlights ongoing institutional tensions within the EU over the balance between centralized executive authority and member-state influence in policymaking.

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