Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, presented on Monday in Brussels the main directions of proposed institutional reforms supported by a report from an independent expert group. She identified three principal aims: simplifying Commission procedures, using public funds more efficiently, and better harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) for digital transformation.
Why reform is needed
Von der Leyen argued that Europe faces increasingly intertwined security, economic and social challenges that require rapid adaptation. That demands clear political decisions, but also an administrative apparatus capable of turning those decisions into effective action.
Main areas of focus
The proposed reforms concentrate on the following priorities:
- simplifying procedures and reducing bureaucracy;
- creating more transparent organisational structures;
- improving cooperation between different organisational units;
- increasing the efficient and responsible use of financial resources.
Von der Leyen underlined that with rising cost-of-living pressures, European citizens rightly expect responsible use of public money and tangible results.
Artificial intelligence and workforce preparation
The plans stress preparing institutional staff for future demands, with particular attention to AI deployment. According to von der Leyen, new technologies can streamline workflows, reduce administrative burdens and make EU institutions more efficient. That requires providing staff with the necessary skills and tools, while strengthening talent development and the adoption of digital solutions.
Resources and shared responsibility
Von der Leyen noted that the Commission’s responsibilities are expanding even as available resources become tighter. She said the transformation must be treated as a collective responsibility across the Commission, with the ultimate aim of improving the quality of public services for European citizens.
Next steps
The report presented on Monday will serve as a key background document for the broader review. The final package of proposals will be put before the College of Commissioners in the coming months by Piotr Serafin, the Commissioner responsible for budget, fraud prevention and public administration.
Tags: European Union, European Commission, reform, Ursula von der Leyen, artificial intelligence, digitalisation, bureaucracy reduction, public administration
