Upcoming EU Leadership Changes Spark Early Speculation
As Charles Michel prepares to vacate his position as President of the European Council to pursue an EU lawmaker role, speculation is rampant about who will succeed him.
Despite no rules requiring him to step down during his campaign and being permitted to retain his privileges, some EU officials express discontent, considering his move somewhat untimely and disrespectful.
Michel’s early departure is legally allowed, but politically contentious. If he exits by June, Belgium’s Prime Minister Alexander de Croo will temporarily take over until Hungary's presidency. Some envision an earlier appointment for the next Council President to prevent leadership gaps.
Social Democrats may be favored for Michel's successor, with former Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen among the potentials. However, controversy surrounds some candidates due to varying factors like political history and ideologies.
Additionally, Stéphane Séjourné steps up as French Foreign Minister, leading to a leadership vacuum within the Renew Europe group.
EU Considers Maritime Presence in Red Sea
The EU contemplates deploying warships to protect Red Sea trade routes threatened by Houthi rebels, aiming to launch an operation that could extend to the Gulf.
EU Parliament Mobilizes Voter Turnout Campaign
Parliament President Roberta Metsola embarks on a tour to promote voter engagement across the EU member states before the upcoming elections and her potential reelection bid.
EU's Defence Spending Ambitions
Commissioner Thierry Breton proposes a €3 billion fund for the European Defence Investment Program to bolster the bloc's defense capabilities.
Belgian Political and Judicial Updates
A Belgian far-right legislator is implicated in a Chinese espionage case, while officials face disruptions due to prison staff strikes and unpaid penalties lead to state property seizures.
Cultural and Entertainment Highlights in Brussels
The Brussels Jazz Festival and EUROPALIA GEORGIA art exhibit occur this weekend, while the city also sees the theater unveiling of political drama 'Rexit!' After the Belgian post-war turmoil.
Anniversaries and Accolades
The newsletter ends by acknowledging birthdays and celebrating new appointments within the EU community.
Michel’s early departure is legally allowed, but politically contentious. If he exits by June, Belgium’s Prime Minister Alexander de Croo will temporarily take over until Hungary's presidency. Some envision an earlier appointment for the next Council President to prevent leadership gaps.
Social Democrats may be favored for Michel's successor, with former Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen among the potentials. However, controversy surrounds some candidates due to varying factors like political history and ideologies.
Additionally, Stéphane Séjourné steps up as French Foreign Minister, leading to a leadership vacuum within the Renew Europe group.
EU Considers Maritime Presence in Red Sea
The EU contemplates deploying warships to protect Red Sea trade routes threatened by Houthi rebels, aiming to launch an operation that could extend to the Gulf.
EU Parliament Mobilizes Voter Turnout Campaign
Parliament President Roberta Metsola embarks on a tour to promote voter engagement across the EU member states before the upcoming elections and her potential reelection bid.
EU's Defence Spending Ambitions
Commissioner Thierry Breton proposes a €3 billion fund for the European Defence Investment Program to bolster the bloc's defense capabilities.
Belgian Political and Judicial Updates
A Belgian far-right legislator is implicated in a Chinese espionage case, while officials face disruptions due to prison staff strikes and unpaid penalties lead to state property seizures.
Cultural and Entertainment Highlights in Brussels
The Brussels Jazz Festival and EUROPALIA GEORGIA art exhibit occur this weekend, while the city also sees the theater unveiling of political drama 'Rexit!' After the Belgian post-war turmoil.
Anniversaries and Accolades
The newsletter ends by acknowledging birthdays and celebrating new appointments within the EU community.
