Ursula von der Leyen, the Commission President, tackles a chaotic back-to-school season filled with naming new commissioners while balancing politics, geography, and expertise. Barbara Moens and Joanna Roberts dive into the implications of this chaos for European policy, especially in light of a rightward shift in elections. They also cover the significant rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany and its possible effect on governance. The discussion pokes into smartphone bans in schools aimed at combatting screen addiction and cyberbullying, highlighting their importance for children's mental health.
The rise of the far-right AFD party in Eastern Germany has sparked significant concern about extremism and its implications for society and politics.
European nations are increasingly banning smartphones in classrooms to combat distractions and mental health issues, indicating a shift in education and technology policy.
Deep dives
Impact of Far-Right Politics in Germany
The recent regional elections in Eastern Germany highlighted the significant rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AFD) party, marking its historic win, particularly in Turinja where it garnered 33 percent of the vote. This victory is particularly alarming as it is viewed as a shift towards extremism, prompting soul-searching among German politicians and civil society regarding how to combat the AFD's growing influence. Concerns about the widening political divide between East and West Germany were also raised, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasizing the AFD's potential to harm the country's economy and social fabric. Observations reveal that the party has transformed into a recognized political force, capable of representing voter interests rather than merely being seen as a protest movement.
Emergence of New Political Forces
The rise of the populist left party, Püntniesarabanknächt, has also become a crucial component of the German political landscape. Formed only months ago, this party is expected to play a significant role in future coalition governments, notably in the upcoming regional elections and the federal election next year. This newfound political force is attracting attention for its potential to become a kingmaker, especially in key states like Saxony and Turinja. Their stance on critical issues, including opposition to arms shipments to Ukraine and advocating for stricter migration limits, suggests they may shape future policies significantly while challenging established parties.
Anticipating Changes in EU Commission Leadership
As the political season begins, discussions around the new European Commission's structure and the allocation of key portfolios are gaining traction. Upcoming hearings will play a vital role in confirming commissioner nominees, particularly amid concerns over gender and country representation. The success and political balance of the new commission could be affected if prominent nominees face significant opposition during their evaluations, leading to a potential reshuffling of responsibilities. Stakeholders are closely monitoring which countries will gain power in desirable portfolios, especially around economic, defense, and climate policy, with these allocations likely to influence EU legislative priorities.
Digital Policies Addressing Screen Addiction
In response to concerns over screen addiction and cyberbullying, several European nations are now banning smartphones from classrooms, reflecting a growing consensus that mobile devices serve as distractions for students. This trend has emerged as countries recognize that existing regulations were ineffective in managing classroom technology. Experts argue that secondary school years are crucial for teaching students how to manage their smartphone usage, and despite expert views, outright bans are being implemented as the easier solution. With EU officials considering the mental health impacts of social media, this growing movement highlights a crucial intersection between education and technology policy at both national and EU levels.
It’s been a particularly chaotic rentrée for Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. In this week’s episode of EU Confidential, we talk about the mad dash to name the new slate of commissioners, while getting the right balance of politics, geography, gender and expertise. Host Sarah Wheaton is joined by POLITICO’s Chief EU Correspondent Barbara Moens and Policy Editor Joanna Roberts to look at the hot button issues on the agenda and consider how European voters’ call for a rightward shift in June could be reflected in policy — or not.
Also, from the Berlin bureau, Nette Nöstlinger shares the top takeaways from Alternative for Germany’s historic victory in regional elections. And Tech Reporter Pieter Haeck looks at the trend of banning smartphones in the classroom and what Brussels can do to boost kids’ mental health.
