One of the unwritten rules within the bloc is that the Commission must maintain geographical balance in its composition across different policy areas. In Northern Europe, Danish digital and competition expert Margrethe Vestager represented the region, often conflicting with Breton, who managed the industrial portfolio. However, Vestager is preparing to step down at the conclusion of this term, leaving a gap yet to be filled by a candidate who could match her standing among economically liberal EU nations.
Meanwhile, France and Italy, both burdened by significant debt loads, have advocated for more flexible fiscal regulations and shared borrowing. French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Meloni have unexpectedly aligned on economic policies at times, despite their differences. Some diplomats from more fiscally conservative countries within the bloc have expressed concerns about appointing another Italian or French individual to oversee the EU’s economics department due to their spending plans.
One such diplomat from one of the bloc’s frugal countries shared their concerns about appointing another Italian or Frenchman to oversee the EU’s economics department. “It can’t be another Italian or Frenchman,” they said. “Just look at their spending plans. That could be very detrimental.”