European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently presented her new list of proposed Commissioners. This prompted concerns from various NGOs and civil rights groups. Organizations such as the Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants (PICUM), Women Against Violence Europe (WAVE), and the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) have raised questions about the division of responsibilities within the Commission. Many believe that the new structure suggests a lack of commitment to advancing the rights of migrants, workers, and women in the EU.
Austrian Magnus Brunner, a former finance minister, is set to take on the role of Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration. As such he is responsible for the EU’s work and strategy to fight human trafficking and so the work of the EU Anti-Trafficking Office will fall under his DG. His portfolio includes combating organized crime, cybercrime, child sexual abuse, and implementing the EU’s approach to border management, including the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum.PICUM has already voiced concerns that, once again, migration is being treated primarily as a security issue. The organization worries that the rights of migrant workers will be overshadowed by a focus on control and border management, especially when it comes to protecting undocumented workers.
Meanwhile, labour rights fall under the responsibility of Roxana Minzatu, the Romanian Vice-President for People, Skills, and Preparedness. She has been tasked with developing a Quality Jobs Roadmap aimed at promoting fair wages, safe working conditions, and a stronger approach to occupational health and safety. However, the ETUC has criticized the absence of a dedicated Commissioner for jobs and social rights, suggesting this move minimizes the importance of labour rights within the new Commission’s agenda.
Belgian Hadja Lahbib, the proposed Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, will also oversee the equality portfolio, including LGBTIQ rights, anti-racism, and gender equality. WAVE has criticized the merging of equality with crisis management, arguing that it indicates a troubling reduction in political commitment to advancing women’s rights across Europe.
The proposed Commissioners will soon face questioning by Members of the European Parliament. This stage will be followed by a vote in the European Parliament’s plenary session, with the new Commission aiming to be in place by November 1, although this timeline remains uncertain.