European Union Reorganizes Leadership to Spotlight the Mediterranean
Europe’s political trajectory is turning its spotlight toward the Mediterranean as the European Parliament positions Ursula von der Leyen to elevate regional priorities. With a final vote still pending on November 1, she reiterated in Strasbourg that she intends to create, for the first time, a dedicated portfolio to appoint a commissioner for the Mediterranean. This role will work in close coordination with the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, currently Kaja Kallas, to align strategy with broader European aims.
Von der Leyen underscored that the Mediterranean region deserves heightened attention, calling for a unified approach to deportations that would be more effective and humane, and for stronger agreements with third countries. As she starts her new term from 2024 to 2029, she is directly tying the Mediterranean focus to plans for investment, partnerships, and economic stability in the area.
Additionally, the president intends to push for job creation in the region and to advance energy, security, and immigration policies while upholding the values and principles of the European Union. One of the Socialist group’s conditions for backing her investiture has been echoed in her speech, signaling a commitment to those core EU standards.
She has not limited herself to a single new portfolio. For the first time, a Commissioner for Housing will be introduced alongside a new defense leadership role. “Europe faces a housing crisis that touches people of all ages and households of every size. Prices and rents are rising, and finding affordable homes is a challenge”, she told the assembly. This housing portfolio will be accompanied by an European Plan for Affordable Housing.
Prensa Ibérica, a regional media group, has been vocal about the Mediterranean pivot. In Valencia, the group hosted the first Economic and Social Forum of the Mediterranean. The event gathered editors from all the outlets within the group, including El Periódico de Catalunya, Diari de Girona, Levante-EMV, Información, Mediterráneo, Diario de Mallorca, La Opinión de Murcia, and La Opinión de Málaga. The forum brought together experts, academics, senior political figures, and key business leaders to discuss the economy and progress of the Mediterranean arc. After three days of meetings, the group’s CEO, Aitor Moll, announced a second edition for 2025 to be held in Málaga. [Citation: Prensa Ibérica press release, Valencia forum coverage]