Ursula von der Leyen: A Political Profile
Ursula von der Leyen is a German politician currently serving as the President of the European Commission since December 1, 2019. She is the first woman to hold this office, and was elected to a second mandate by the European Parliament. Her career spans multiple ministerial roles within Germany and now a leadership position at the European Union level.
Early Career and German Ministerial Roles
Von der Leyen began her political career in Lower Saxony, serving as Minister for Social Affairs, Women and Families and Health from 2003 to 2005. She then transitioned to federal politics, holding the position of Minister for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth from 2005 to 2009 under Chancellor Angela Merkel. Subsequently, she served as Minister for Labour and Social Affairs from 2009 to 2013, before becoming Minister for Defence from 2013 to 2019.
Defense Minister and Controversy
During her tenure as Defense Minister, von der Leyen faced scrutiny over the modernization of the Bundeswehr (German armed forces). A parliamentary inquiry, known as the Berateraffäre (consultants scandal), investigated the extensive use of external consultants, such as McKinsey and Accenture, and the associated costs.
Presidency of the European Commission
In July 2019, von der Leyen was nominated by the European Council to succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as President of the European Commission. Her presidency has focused on key policy areas including the European Green Deal, digitalization, and the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Academic Background
Von der Leyen holds a doctorate in medicine. But, her doctoral dissertation faced allegations of plagiarism, though she retained her degree.
Political Affiliations
She is a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and has been involved in the party’s leadership, serving as Deputy Leader from 2010 to 2019. She is also affiliated with the European People’s Party.