Ursula von der Leyen: A Beacon of Hope for Europe's Future

Amidst a backdrop of tumultuous geopolitical landscapes and pressing economic challenges, rallying behind Ursula von der Leyen for a second term as EU chief emerges as a beacon of hope for unity among national leaders. As the European electorate prepares for the upcoming June elections, a recent poll underscores von der Leyen's unprecedented resonance with voters, eclipsing the visibility of any previous EU leader. In a striking contrast to her predecessors, von der Leyen's name and visage are recognized by nearly 75% of Europeans, a testament to her pervasive influence.

The urgency for EU reform intensifies against the backdrop of conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, alongside shifting global dynamics between China and the US. Deeper defense integration and fiscal cohesion are imperative to confront burgeoning geopolitical challenges, while leveraging new technologies to foster prosperity for future generations becomes paramount. The EU's expansion aspirations, aiming to embrace additional member states, necessitate robust democratic mechanisms and enhanced accountability.

The prospect of von der Leyen's reelection heralds a crucial juncture for European governance. Having navigated the complexities of the Covid-19 pandemic and the Ukrainian conflict during her initial tenure, her leadership acumen has garnered widespread recognition. As the process unfolds, with MEPs tasked with electing the Commission president, the endorsement of EU heads of government assumes pivotal importance.

In this pivotal moment, Europe's leaders stand at the precipice of opportunity. By endorsing von der Leyen's candidacy for a second term, they signal a commitment to continuity and stability amid turbulent times. With public confidence in EU institutions at stake, embracing von der Leyen's leadership represents a tangible step towards a cohesive, resilient Europe.

Stepping into her new term, the German conservative leader stands poised to draw inspiration from one of the European Union's most distinguished figures, the French socialist Jacques Delors. Delors, renowned for his visionary leadership, utilized his second term to chart a course for economic and monetary union, laying the groundwork for the landmark 1992 Maastricht treaty. Emulating Delors' bold approach, von der Leyen must unveil an equally ambitious reform agenda, rallying support within the Commission, the European Council (comprising EU governments), and the diverse political factions within the European Parliament.

This reform initiative transcends mere institutional readiness for a potential enlargement to 30 member states; it demands substantive policy reform. Negotiating reform amidst 27 member states poses formidable challenges compared to Delors' era, yet von der Leyen possesses a crucial advantage – the explicit mandate from Europe's electorate. This popular backing could serve as a catalyst for meaningful change, elevating the EU's efficacy and relevance on the global stage.

Rather than awaiting the next crisis, European leaders must seize the moment to enact reforms that fortify the EU's capacity to respond decisively. With von der Leyen at the helm, recognized as a skilled negotiator who has personified the Brussels executive, there exists a tangible opportunity for transformative change. With the backing of national leaders, von der Leyen can harness this momentum to orchestrate the much-needed overhaul essential for an expanding union navigating tumultuous global dynamics.

Catherine De Vries holds the prestigious Generali chair in European policies and serves as a professor at Bocconi University in Milan, while Isabell Hoffmann brings her expertise on Europe as a senior expert at the Bertelsmann Stiftung.

In conclusion, as Ursula von der Leyen embarks on her second term as EU chief, she stands at a pivotal juncture in shaping the future of European integration. By channeling the spirit of Jacques Delors and championing an ambitious reform agenda, von der Leyen has the opportunity to galvanize support across EU institutions and member states. With the backing of Europe's voters and the leadership of von der Leyen, European leaders possess the means to enact transformative reforms that will fortify the EU's resilience and efficacy in an increasingly uncertain world. With determination and collective action, the EU can emerge stronger, more united, and better equipped to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.