Brussels – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is under fire after it was revealed that she managed EU affairs from a hospital bed for a week while battling severe pneumonia, refusing to temporarily delegate authority to her vice-presidents.
This revelation, coupled with accusations of centralising power and eroding transparency, has intensified scrutiny of her leadership.
Commission spokeswoman Paula Pinho defended von der Leyen’s decision on Tuesday, 14 January, declining to apologise for earlier misleading statements that claimed the president was recovering at her Hannover home. The truth only emerged when sources confirmed her hospitalisation, prompting questions about the delay in delegating her duties.
The lack of transparency disrupted EU operations, delaying high-level meetings and initiatives, such as the much-anticipated “Competitiveness Compass.” German MEP Gabriele Bischoff (S&D) criticised von der Leyen’s decision, questioning why executive vice-presidents exist if they are not trusted to lead during such instances.
This episode underscores broader concerns over von der Leyen’s leadership style. Critics accuse her of bypassing commissioners and centralising key EU functions, particularly through a controversial reshuffle placing critical departments under her direct control.
Transparency concerns have also plagued her tenure, highlighted by missing Pfizer text messages, alleged document concealment, and limited press engagement.
Her approach has alienated national leaders, with decisions on sensitive issues—such as the Mercosur trade deal and Chinese electric vehicle tariffs—being made without proper consultation, exacerbating fears of diminishing member-state sovereignty.
As von der Leyen consolidates power, critics argue her leadership threatens the EU’s democratic principles, sparking debate over the balance between efficiency and accountability in Brussels. The fallout from these revelations will likely intensify scrutiny of her leadership in the weeks to come.
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