Ursula von der Leyen is a German politician and the President of the European Commission since December 1, 2019. She is a member of the center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and was previously Germany’s Minister of Defense (2013–2019), making her the first woman to hold that position.
As President of the European Commission, von der Leyen has focused on climate policy (European Green Deal), digital transformation, and geopolitical challenges, including the EU’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic, and relations with China and the U.S.
Before entering politics, she studied medicine and worked as a physician. She is known for her strong pro-European stance and leadership style, though she has faced criticism over issues like defence procurement during her time as minister and the handling of vaccine contracts during the pandemic.
Ursula von der Leyen, re-elected as President of the European Commission in 2024, has outlined an ambitious agenda for her second term, focusing on enhancing Europe’s defence capabilities, advancing the European Green Deal, and strengthening technological autonomy.
In response to geopolitical threats and uncertainties over U.S. military support, von der Leyen proposed the “ReArm Europe” plan on March 4, 2025. This initiative aims to mobilise up to €800 billion to bolster the EU’s defence infrastructure, emphasising reduced reliance on external allies and increased self-reliance in defence.
In strengthening Europe’s defence capabilities, von der Leyen has advocated for collective arms purchasing across the EU through a proposed “European Military Sales Mechanism.” This initiative aims to centralise the procurement of European weaponry, facilitating easier access for member states and supporting domestic arms manufacturers.
In continuing her commitment to environmental sustainability, von der Leyen remains a key proponent of the European Green Deal. This comprehensive program aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 through the adoption of renewable energy sources and significant economic and social transformations.
In recognising the importance of technological advancement, von der Leyen’s agenda includes measures to advance digital technologies, particularly in artificial intelligence and data. The goal is to enhance Europe’s competitiveness on the global stage and reduce dependency on external technological powers.
Von der Leyen’s re-election reflects strong support from influential EU member states, including Germany, France, Spain, and Italy. Her leadership is expected to continue focusing on strategic policies that enhance the EU’s global standing, such as the European Green Deal and defence initiatives.
Her political approach balances pragmatism with ambition, navigating complex challenges like migration, economic competitiveness, and geopolitical tensions. As the EU faces evolving global dynamics, von der Leyen’s leadership will likely play a crucial role in shaping the union’s responses to these challenges.
One of von der Leyen’s most defining achievements is the European Green Deal, launched in 2019. It aims to make the EU carbon-neutral by 2050 through the Fit for 55 package, which sets a goal to cut emissions by 55% by 2030. Also, Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to tax carbon-intensive imports and Nature Restoration Law to protect biodiversity. Her leadership on climate action solidified the EU’s global role in sustainability, though industries and some member states resisted stricter regulations.
Von der Leyen spearheaded the joint EU vaccine procurement strategy, securing over 4.2 billion doses for EU citizens. The NextGenerationEU recovery fund (€750 billion) helped member states recover from the pandemic. However, early vaccine rollouts were slow, drawing criticism.
Under her leadership, the EU took a historic stance against Russia after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine by imposing unprecedented sanctions on Russia. Providing over €80 billion in military, economic, and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Also proposing the ReArm Europe initiative in 2025, mobilising €800 billion for EU defence, reducing dependence on the U.S.
This marked a turning point in EU defence policy, pushing for more military self-reliance.
Von der Leyen promoted EU digital sovereignty by strengthening AI and semiconductor investments (European Chips Act). Regulating big tech with the Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA) to curb monopolistic practices. These efforts aimed to reduce reliance on U.S. and Chinese tech giants.
She revived the EU enlargement process, advancing membership talks with Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans. She also bolstered EU relations with Africa, promoting investment and trade to counter Chinese influence.
The EU’s reliance on the U.S. for security remains a concern, especially with uncertainties about future U.S. commitments to NATO. The “ReArm Europe” initiative (aimed at military self-reliance) faces resistance from some EU nations hesitant about defense integration.
Disagreements over migration policies, climate regulations, and budget contributions continue to cause friction among member states. Nationalist and far-right parties are gaining influence, threatening EU cohesion.
The European Green Deal faces resistance from farmers, industries, and some governments concerned about economic costs. Balancing sustainability goals with economic competitiveness remains difficult.
The EU lags behind the U.S. and China in AI, semiconductors, and tech innovation. Regulations like the Digital Markets Act (DMA) could limit tech giants but may also slow EU startups’ growth.
In terms of Enlargement & Institutional Reform, fast-tracking Ukraine, Moldova, and Western Balkans into the EU is politically and economically complex. As reforming EU decision-making (e.g., reducing veto power in foreign policy) remains a contentious issue.
With U.S. focus shifting to Asia, von der Leyen can position the EU as a more independent geopolitical power, especially in defence and diplomacy. Strengthening partnerships with Africa, Latin America, and Indo-Pacific nations can reduce reliance on China.
As far as Economic Growth via Green & Digital Transformation is concerned and if well-managed, the European Green Deal and tech investments (e.g., AI, clean energy, digital sovereignty) could make the EU a global leader in sustainable and high-tech industries.
In terms of Defense & Security Industrial Boost, a more integrated EU defense industry could reduce dependence on U.S. arms and create jobs. Expanding cybersecurity and space initiatives can strengthen Europe’s strategic position.
EU Enlargement as a Strategic Advantage means a larger EU (with Ukraine, Moldova, and Western Balkans) could boost economic and military strength. Stronger institutional reforms could make the EU more efficient in decision-making.
Von der Leyen faces major political and economic challenges but also has opportunities to reshape the EU as a global power with a stronger defense, green economy, and tech sector. Her success will depend on managing internal EU divisions while adapting to external geopolitical shifts.
Von der Leyen’s legacy is defined by her strong leadership in crises (COVID-19, Ukraine war, energy crisis) and her push for a more autonomous, green, and digitally sovereign Europe. However, she faced criticism over slow initial vaccine rollout (2021). Also there were tensions with member states over green policies and challenges in military cooperation across the EU.
Overall, she will be remembered for transforming the EU into a more geopolitically active and strategically independent force on the global stage.
