The Commission of Europe
European Commission: Its Structure, Role, and Current Leadership
The European Commission, a vital institution of the European Union, is a collegial body of 27 members, each representing one of the member states. The Commission is responsible for applying the community's treaty law and provisions adopted by its institutions, often referred to as the 'Guardian of the Treaties.'
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, was re-elected on 18th July 2024. The President is elected by the European Parliament after the European Council has proposed them, taking into account the outcome of the European Parliament elections. The President then appoints the High Representative of the Union for Foreign and Security Policy, who is also a Vice-President of the Commission. Kaja Kallas currently holds this position.
The appointment of the High Representative is a separate process from the appointment of the other Commission members. The other members are chosen by the President in agreement with the Council, based on proposals from the member states.
The European Commission has the exclusive right of initiative for proposals to maintain, develop, and apply the community policies, with the exception of certain areas of justice and home affairs. In the area of trade and other agreements with third countries, the Commission is responsible for negotiations, provided the subject matter falls within its competence.
The Commission is a decisive body, making decisions jointly. It can issue binding legal acts in relation to the implementation of secondary law. Before the final appointment of the Commission by the European Council, the European Parliament must approve the President, the High Representative, and the other Commissioners as a college.
The term of office for the European Commission is five years. As of December 1, 2024, the Commission is led by President Ursula von der Leyen, with Commissioners including Margrethe Vestager as Executive Vice-President for A Europe Fit for the Digital Age, Frans Timmermans as Executive Vice-President for the European Green Deal, and other Commissioners each responsible for specific portfolios representing all EU member states.
The President sets the political guidelines for the Commission. The Commission, as a whole, works together to ensure the proper functioning and development of the European Union. The European Commission, with its approximately 33,000 employees, plays a crucial role in upholding the principles and values of the European Union.
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