Inside the POLITICO 28 gala: Europe’s most powerful players (and hangover)
Dec 13, 2024
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Aitor Hernández-Morales, a senior POLITICO reporter, shares insights on the influential POLITICO 28 list, revealing how a vacuum in traditional power is giving rise to new political players. Kaya Kallas, the EU's foreign affairs chief, discusses her take on Ukraine’s ongoing conflict and broader geopolitical dynamics. Carmen Paun provides a critical look at Romania’s canceled presidential election, addressing the controversy over social media's influence and allegations of interference. An engaging mix of politics and social insight takes center stage.
The POLITICO 28 gala highlighted a shift in European power dynamics, as traditional leaders face competition from emerging influencers like Kaja Kallas.
Romania's political crisis following the election cancellation reflects deeper issues of governance and the influence of social media in shaping public perception.
Deep dives
The Politico 28 Gala and Its Significance
The Politico 28 Gala showcased the influential individuals expected to shape Europe's political landscape in the upcoming year. The event highlighted an evolving power dynamic within the EU, as traditional leaders are increasingly challenged by newcomers. Notably, members of parliament and key decision-makers mingled, emphasizing the blend of glamour with serious discussions about geopolitical issues. The gala served as a platform for the EU's new foreign policy chief to assert a firm stance against aggressive regimes, reflecting the current urgency of aligning Europe’s defense strategies.
Ranking Power Players in Europe
This year’s Politico 28 list reflects a power vacuum in Europe, with established figures like the French president politically weakened, creating space for new influencers to emerge. The rankings are categorized into three groups: doers, disruptors, and dreamers, each representing different forms of influence in European politics. The top honoree is Georgia Maloney, whose ascent symbolizes a shift toward more right-leaning, nationalist leadership within the EU. This trend raises questions about the future of traditional political narratives as newer, populist figures gain traction.
The Impact of Ukraine's Struggles on EU Politics
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is spotlighted as a reframing element in European politics, emphasizing the need for a united front against aggression. The discourse among leaders reflects a consensus that Ukraine must be supported in achieving victory to prevent greater conflicts in the future. There is concern that appeasing aggressors only leads to more wars, underlining the imperative for a resolute strategy. This sentiment resonates with various leaders, including Kaya Kalas, who stresses the significance of establishing clear victory goals to guide military and diplomatic strategies.
Romania's Political Turmoil and Future Elections
Romania faces significant political turmoil after the cancellation of its presidential elections, sparking debates about democracy and governance. The constitutional court’s decision has led to concerns about fairness and the existing party dynamics, as accusations arise regarding the manipulation of social media during the campaign. With this unexpected turn, political parties must reassess their strategies to retain relevance among voters. Amidst this chaos, a rising leader continues to capture the attention of the public by emphasizing the nation's pride and the need for reforms that resonate with broader European sentiments.
This week's episode of EU Confidential takes you inside the POLITICO 28 gala, where we revealed our list of the people who will drive the year ahead. Host Sarah Wheaton is joined by POLITICO Editor-in-Chief Jamil Anderlini and senior reporter Aitor Hernández-Morales to discuss how a vacuum in the EU's traditional power centers and growing disillusionment with traditional parties is giving rise to a new class of influential Doers, Dreamers and Disrupters in this year’s power ranking. Among them: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, who Sarah interviewed at this week’s P28 gala.
Then, we’ll check in on Romania, where a court recently cancelled a presidential election that drove ultranationalist Călin Georgescu into the second round. The court cited malign interference on TikTok, but opposition figures say it’s just the establishment trying to hold on to power. POLITICO’s Carmen Paun and Pieter Haeck unpack how it’s playing out in Bucharest and Brussels.