Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, has appointed Belgian politician Philippe Lamberts as her climate adviser, a strategic move to secure the backing of the Green faction in the European Parliament ahead of a crucial confidence vote. The announcement, made two days before the parliamentary session in Strasbourg, signals an attempt to rebuild trust with the Greens after tensions arose over recent political decisions.
Timing and Political Context
Lamberts’ appointment comes at a critical moment. The Greens, instrumental in securing von der Leyen’s re-election as Commission President in July, had expressed discontent over her proposal to appoint Italian politician Raffaele Fitto as Executive Vice-President of the Commission. Fitto, a member of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s far-right party, was approved with support from Manfred Weber, leader of the European People’s Party (EPP). This move, the Greens argued, jeopardised the pro-European coalition in Parliament.
In response, von der Leyen sought to reassure the Greens of their importance within the pro-European majority. “The cooperation with the Greens over the past five years has been constructive,” she remarked, highlighting their pivotal role in her re-election. The overture appears to have worked, as a narrow majority of the Greens decided on Monday to support the Commission in the upcoming vote.
Philippe Lamberts: A Bridge Builder
Philippe Lamberts, a veteran politician and former co-leader of the Greens in the European Parliament, is well-regarded for his extensive experience and diplomatic skills. Over his 15-year tenure in Parliament, he has built a reputation as a pragmatic and influential figure, adept at fostering dialogue across diverse stakeholders.
Von der Leyen emphasised Lamberts’ role in advancing the EU’s climate objectives, particularly the legally binding target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. His task will involve bridging gaps between business sectors, NGOs, political leaders, administrative bodies, and vulnerable groups. Von der Leyen expressed confidence that Lamberts’ expertise and network would make him a “reliable bridge-builder” in navigating the complexities of climate policy.
A Strategic Move Amid Tensions
The appointment of Lamberts is widely seen as an effort to mollify the Greens and maintain their support within the European Parliament. The faction had been vocal in criticising Manfred Weber, accusing the EPP leader of endangering the pro-European alliance by endorsing Fitto. The controversy underscored the fragility of von der Leyen’s parliamentary majority and the political balancing act required to sustain it.
By naming Lamberts as her adviser, von der Leyen has not only addressed the Greens’ concerns but also strengthened her climate agenda. Lamberts’ reputation as a consensus-builder aligns with the Commission’s broader goals of fostering collaboration to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
