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European Union: Stability and Innovation

[This editorial is also available in Ukrainian.]

The re-election of Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission reflects the high degree of political stability in the Union as a whole.

The rise of the far right, which has resulted in an increase in the number of political groups in Parliament - there are now 8 - has not upset the parliamentary majority, and its candidate has increased her score compared to 2019.

National protests have helped to reinforce criticism, but they do not call into question either the Union's policies or the central majority that runs its institutions.

Is this a sign of continuity?

If the idea is to strengthen European autonomy and the defence of Europe, it now seems clear that this imperative, already modestly being addressed, will be further bolstered because it is now finally being acknowledged.

But it also seems that lessons will be learned from the previous mandate. The emphasis is on the economy, its competitiveness, the completion of the single capital market - in short, a new and necessary mobilisation to close the gap with the world's major competitors. And this takes on particular significance in view of the forthcoming US presidential election.

Support for investment and a break in regulations based decisions should bolster competitiveness. Without questioning environmental objectives, the re-elected President of the European Commission has signalled a change of direction that many economic players, starting with farmers and manufacturers, have been hoping for by promising a long-awaited "pragmatism".

Will European policies be able to adapt quickly enough to the rapid technological and geopolitical changes of this very special era?

This is probably what the new Commission will be judged on, as it is an essential body for coordinating national policies and building common policies.
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