Slowenien's Political Strife and EU Commission Nomination Controversy

Political Turmoil in Slowenien

Due to internal political maneuvering in Slowenien, Ursula von der Leyen's timeline for presenting her new EU Commission faces challenges. The Laibach (Ljubljana) opposition is delaying calls to the relevant parliamentary committee, particularly from the SDS party of former Prime Minister Janez Janša, which opposes Marta Kos's nomination for the Brussels position suggested by Prime Minister Robert Golob.

Pressure from the EU Commission

On Friday, a spokesperson for the EU Commission confirmed that Ursula von der Leyen intends to introduce the group leaders in the European Parliament on Tuesday. This follows her postponement of this week's presentation regarding Slowenien. Reports indicate that the EU Commission is now urging the Slovenian government to provide written confirmation of Kos's nomination. It seems this is necessary as the government is not bound by the committee's vote.

• The political climate is tense as von der Leyen may present her complete team without a Slovenian representative.
• Slowenien had previously supported a candidate, Tomaž Vesel, who later withdrew.
• Pressure seems aimed at increasing female representation within the EU Commission.

Opposition Resistance

The SDS demands that the Slovenian government submits von der Leyen's correspondence, although only Vesel's withdrawal was communicated. This may delay parliamentary proceedings by up to 14 days. The opposition raises concerns about Marta Kos's qualifications, citing accusations from her past.

1. Kos's academic background includes studies in journalism and political science.
2. She has worked notably as a spokesperson for the government and held ambassadorial roles.
3. Previously, she was honored with the Bundesverdienstkreuz in Germany.