Brussels reaffirms support for EU diplomatic service after criticism

The European Commission has publicly backed the European External Action Service (EEAS) and its chief, Kalla Kallas, after several member states reportedly voiced criticism over its coordination and efficiency. Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho emphasized that the EEAS is a key institution for executing EU policies and enjoys the full support of Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

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The External Action Service is part of the institutions that execute the policies of the European Union and, therefore, obviously, our president (of the EC, Ursula von der Leyen) supports it, as well as the work it does.

Reports in outlets like the Financial Times highlighted concerns from some diplomats who called for a restructuring of the EEAS and the role of the High Representative. These critiques pointed to alleged descoordination and a lack of effectiveness within the EU's diplomatic corps.

Pinho, however, stressed that the EU treaties clearly define the competencies of each institution. She also noted that the requirement for unanimity in foreign policy decisions, where a single member state can veto proposals, has sometimes hindered progress. This situation fuels ongoing debate about potentially shifting to qualified majority voting for foreign policy matters.

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The treaties are clear regarding competencies and who does what.

The EEAS was established in 2009 with the Lisbon Treaty to consolidate the EU's diplomatic efforts, merging personnel from the European Commission, the Council, and national diplomatic services. Its aim was to present a unified voice for the EU on the global stage.

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the fact that, in a series of areas, unanimity still exists, the possibility for a member state to veto some decisions, has prevented us, in some cases, from moving forward.