Last week’s summit in Brussels saw the distribution of the EU’s most important leadership positions. Ursula von der Leyen was elected to continue as chairman of the commission, while the former prime minister of Portugal will lead the summits and the representative for foreign policy will be the Prime Minister of Estonia, Kaja Kallas. However, both von der Leyen and Kallas still need majority approval from the European Parliament.
Kallas’ appointment is significant for small Estonia, showcasing that even smaller countries can rise to leadership positions in the EU when qualified and unafraid to take a stand. The Baltic countries, including Latvia and Estonia, have had a considerable presence in EU politics, despite their smaller size in terms of population and economy. Prominent politicians from these countries have garnered attention for their straightforward stance on issues.
Finland has also played a role in EU politics, with former Prime Minister Sanna Marin gaining attention for her strong positions on Ukraine. Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen has also made an impact, particularly in Germany, due to her language skills and ability to debate European issues. Spain has taken a different approach by actively campaigning for specific portfolios, such as the green transition portfolio.
Finland must strive for top positions in EU politics and aim for portfolios that align with its interests, such as the internal market and competitiveness. Active participation in EU debates and presenting constructive alternatives for the development of Europe is crucial. The game is not lost for Finland, and with the right strategy and vision, it can still make a significant impact in EU politics.
Furthermore, the internal market and state subsidies are critical for Finland’s economic growth, and emphasis on these areas in EU discussions is essential. Henna Virkkus, a politician with experience in EU affairs, can play a role in advancing Finland’s interests. The country should aim for portfolios that align with its economic priorities and actively engage in discussions on the future of Europe.