On November 27, 2024, the European Parliament approved a new European Commission led by Ursula von der Leyen, securing 370 votes in favor, 282 against, and 36 abstentions.

Von der Leyen emphasized the importance of the automotive industry for European jobs and announced plans for a strategic dialogue to address its future challenges.

She also proposed legislation aimed at improving investment access for digital startups and promoting the recycling of critical raw materials.

Stéphane Séjourné, now Vice President for Prosperity and Industrial Strategy, is tasked with enhancing Europe's competitive edge in the global market.

As Commission President, von der Leyen will address significant challenges such as potential trade wars, migration policy disputes, and the ongoing war in Ukraine, leveraging her five years of experience in office.

The newly formed Commission plans to shift focus from the 'Green Deal' framework to a 'Clean Industrial Deal,' which may signal a rollback on environmental regulations and increased collaboration with right-wing factions.

In light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, von der Leyen's team, including Ylva Johansson, has called for increased defense spending in Europe to compete with Russia's military expenditures.

Kaja Kallas, the new High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, faces the challenge of unifying EU foreign policy, particularly regarding military support for Ukraine amid differing member state views.

Iratxe Garcia-Pérez, head of the social democrats, highlighted the need for stability in Europe while expressing concerns over the nomination of Raffaele Fitto as vice president due to his ties with the far-right.

The Greens have voiced concerns about potential alliances with right-wing nationalists, advocating for a 'firewall' against such collaborations.

The rise of the far-right is expected to significantly impact the political landscape during this term, as evidenced by the ongoing debates within the Commission.