It seems that Charles Michel is facing increasing isolation and criticism from his peers. Specifically, the President of the European Council is being accused of neglecting his duties as a preparer and organizer during summits, which are crucial events.
Michel is being criticized for prioritizing international trips and reportedly campaigning for a new position, despite his current mandate ending this year. There are concerns that Michel’s behavior and attitude are unwelcome among high-ranking officials, particularly given that the EU already has a head of foreign affairs in Josep Borrell.
There are also reports of strained relationships between Michel and the leaders of the 27 countries, as well as with Ursula von der Leyen. Some speculate that Michel may be eyeing a new role as president of the European Investment Bank.
It appears that Charles Michel would be more and more isolated and criticized by his peers. It appears in particular that the President of the European Council does not concentrate enough on his functions of preparer and organizer during the summits, which are nevertheless essential.
He would be criticized for preferring trips abroad and for already eyeing a new position by pulling the blanket on him. His mandate is indeed coming to an end at the end of the year and he tells himself that he would see himself in a new role in the European Parliament, which would explain his tendency to want to show himself internationally. However, the EU already has a head of foreign affairs: Josep Borrell. The attitude of Charles Michel would therefore be unwelcome for certain high-ranking people.
Charles Michel future president of the European Investment Bank?
At the head of the European Council, our former Prime Minister would also maintain icy relations with the leaders of the 27 and Ursula von der Leyen would also not hold him in high esteem, says Politico.
In conclusion, it appears that Charles Michel’s future as President of the European Council is uncertain, with increasing criticism and isolation from his peers. His focus on international trips and potential aspirations for a new role in the European Parliament have caused concern among high-ranking officials, particularly as the EU already has a Head of Foreign Affairs. Furthermore, Michel’s relations with the leaders of the 27 member states and Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, have become strained. It remains to be seen what Michel’s next move will be, but for now, his position as President of the European Council seems tenuous.