Her Excellency Ursula von der Leyen

Her Excellency Ursula von der Leyen

Her Excellency Ursula von der Leyen stands as one of Europe’s most resolute and forward-looking leaders, guiding the European Commission with conviction, clarity, and unwavering belief in unity. Since assuming the presidency in 2019, she has steered the European Union through defining global challenges, reinforcing the principle that solidarity among nations is the cornerstone of stability, prosperity, and peace. Her leadership is grounded in the conviction that Europe must not only respond to history, but actively shape it.

Raised between Brussels and Germany and trained as a medical doctor, she brings both analytical precision and human empathy to public life. Her earlier service in senior ministerial roles in Germany, including as the country’s first female Minister of Defence, reflected her commitment to modernization, institutional strength, and international partnership. These experiences forged a leader capable of balancing reform with resilience and vision with action.

Under her presidency, the European Union has advanced ambitious initiatives such as the European Green Deal and transformative digital strategies, positioning Europe at the forefront of sustainable growth and technological innovation. At the same time, she has demonstrated decisive leadership in times of crisis, coordinating collective responses that reinforce economic stability and protect democratic values across the Union.

Central to her tenure has been a proactive and steadfast commitment to Ukraine. From the earliest days of Russia’s full-scale invasion, she has championed comprehensive support—mobilizing humanitarian aid, macro-financial assistance, sanctions coordination, and a clear European pathway for Ukraine’s future. Her visits to Kyiv and her unequivocal advocacy for Ukraine’s sovereignty have underscored a powerful message: that Europe stands united in defense of freedom, territorial integrity, and the rule of law.

Her Excellency Ursula von der Leyen leads with courage anchored in principle. She embodies the belief that Europe’s strength lies not only in its economic power, but in its moral resolve and shared democratic ideals. Through determination, compassion, and strategic foresight, she inspires a continent to act with confidence, uphold its values, and shape a future defined by unity, resilience, and hope.

European Commission

The European Commission stands as the driving force at the heart of the European Union, transforming shared vision into meaningful action for over 450 million citizens. As the EU’s executive arm, it shapes policy, safeguards treaties, and advances initiatives that promote prosperity, sustainability, innovation, and unity across a diverse continent. It is an institution built on the belief that cooperation between nations creates strength far greater than isolation ever could.

Guided by the principles of democracy, solidarity, and the rule of law, the European Commission works to address the defining challenges of our time—from climate transition and digital transformation to economic resilience and global partnership. Through strategic leadership and forward-thinking policy, it fosters opportunity, protects fundamental rights, and champions a future rooted in shared progress. In every initiative, the Commission reflects the enduring European ideal: that unity, purpose, and collaboration can shape a more peaceful, dynamic, and prosperous world for generations to come.

Setting strategic priorities

• Along with the other main EU institutions, the European Commission develops the overall strategy and political direction of the EU.
• Every five years, at the beginning of a new Commission term, the president of the Commission also determines the political priorities for its upcoming term of office.
• The Commission turns these priorities into concrete actions on a yearly basis through an annual work programme, which sets out a plan of action for the next twelve months.