Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has positioned herself as both a kingmaker and troublemaker in the pursuit of a significant European Commission portfolio ahead of the first European Parliament plenary in July. Meloni recently opposed the top jobs package agreed by the EU Council, citing a desire to give Italy more influence in Europe. She abstained on Ursula von der Leyen’s nomination for president of the Commission, leaving the door open for potential negotiation on a high-level portfolio for Italy in the upcoming EU institutional term.
Von der Leyen still needs confirmation by the European Parliament in July, and Meloni’s 24 MEPs from Brothers of Italy (FdI) could potentially provide crucial support. However, Meloni faces challenges in preserving her domestic coalition in Brussels, as well as navigating the fragmented right wing of the European Parliament. The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, of which Meloni’s party belongs, is currently undergoing negotiations on its future direction amidst potential factional splits.
Meloni has until the vote for von der Leyen in July to engage in back-stage negotiations and secure a favorable position for Italy in the next European Commission. Her actions demonstrate a delicate balancing act between seeking a significant role for Italy in the EU and navigating the complexities of European politics. As the EU Parliament prepares for a pivotal vote, all eyes will be on Meloni and her potential impact on the composition of the next European Commission.
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