European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos offered little in the way of fresh ideas, doubling down on policies that critics argue have put the EU at a disadvantage. Her address sounded more like a campaign pitch, reflecting how the Commission has shifted from serving member states to driving a left-leaning, liberal agenda.
Von der Leyen’s first term saw the controversial Green Deal, which brought higher taxes, skyrocketing energy costs, and excessive regulations under the guise of cutting carbon emissions. This overregulation of the EU single market has hurt competitiveness, leaving Europe trailing in innovation, technology, and research while other global powers surge ahead.
In her Davos speech, she admitted that “too much of our top talent is leaving the European Union … and far too many firms are holding back investment in Europe because of unnecessary red tape.” Despite this acknowledgment, her proposals offered more regulation and further European integration—moves that seem out of step with the growing demand for member states to reclaim control from the EU.
Among her plans, she pledged to create a European Savings and Investments Union to boost cross-border investments and streamline business operations by unifying rules on corporate law, taxation, and labor. She also promised to complete the EU’s energy union strategy, aiming to reduce energy costs and enable cleaner power distribution across the continent.
Von der Leyen urged global collaboration, stating, “This is the moment to engage beyond blocks and taboos, and Europe is ready for change.” She cited the EU’s recent deal with the Mercosur bloc as a success, though critics argue it will flood the market with subpar agricultural goods. Additionally, she highlighted plans to deepen partnerships with India, maintain constructive ties with China despite trade tensions, and strengthen relations with the U.S., even as President Trump signaled plans to reduce America’s trade deficit with the EU.
However, her speech drew criticism for sidestepping major security concerns. She made no mention of illegal immigration, despite millions of undocumented migrants entering the EU under her watch. Similarly, the war in Ukraine—one of Europe’s most pressing challenges—received only a passing mention. When asked about it later, she reiterated the EU’s ongoing support, stating, “We stand by Ukraine for as long as it takes,” but offered no fresh insights.
Von der Leyen also reiterated the EU’s commitment to defending its values, including its liberal policies and promotion of LGBTQ rights. Yet her focus on a more unified Europe and global engagement left many questioning whether these policies truly address the pressing challenges facing the continent.
