Teresa Ribera Clears First Hurdle for European Commission Vice Presidency Despite Opposition from Spanish PP
Teresa Ribera, the Minister for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge, has successfully navigated the first checkpoint in her bid to become the vice president of the European Commission, despite facing resistance from the Spanish People's Party (PP). The European Parliament's Legal Affairs Committee (JURI) approved her asset declaration alongside those of 25 other nominees, allowing them to proceed to the relevant committees where they will be scrutinized for their respective portfolios.
The approval came with significant backing from the European People's Party (PPE), social democrats, and liberals, while members of the Spanish PP distanced themselves from this coalition, joining forces with the Vox party, which opposed Ribera's candidacy. This vote marks a notable divergence for the PP, which has previously attempted to undermine the prospects of Spanish candidates for essential roles in environmental and competition sectors.
The history of opposition from the PP wasn't limited to Ribera alone; they have consistently tried to challenge candidates representing Spain in crucial European roles. Notably, during this current process of candidate evaluations, the PP raised concerns about Ribera's husband, Mariano Bacigalupo, who is affiliated with the National Securities Market Commission (CNMV). However, their attempts to obstruct the nomination did not sway the broader European PP, which chose to overlook these objections and proceed with the nomination process.
Failure to advance Ribera's candidacy could have led to complications within existing political majorities in the European Parliament. As it stands, her approval represents a critical step forward for not only Ribera but for Spain's representation in European environmental policy, a realm that aligns closely with her ministerial responsibilities.
The scrutiny of her qualifications will now continue in upcoming committee appearances, where her vision and strategies for ecological transition in the European Commission will be evaluated. Ribera's candidacy underscores a significant moment for Spain as it seeks a more robust role in shaping European environmental governance.
Related Sources: