Czech EU Commissioner Vera Jourova is set to expand her portfolio significantly, taking on a substantial part of the responsibilities previously held by EU Competition Commissioner and Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager. Vestager recently announced her candidacy for the position of President of the European Investment Bank (EIB) and is going on unpaid leave, prompting this realignment of responsibilities within the European Commission.

In her new role, Jourova will oversee and coordinate the Digital Age Ready Europe program, adding to her existing responsibilities as EU Commissioner for Values and Transparency. This expansion underscores the growing importance of digital transformation and regulation in the European Union.

Jourova expressed her readiness to take on the new role, acknowledging the significant workload it entails. As part of her responsibilities, she will be responsible for finalizing regulations related to artificial intelligence, as well as promoting European solutions for the digital realm. Additionally, she will lead negotiations with countries such as China and the USA, representing the EU’s interests in these critical discussions. Jourova will also represent the EU at G7 meetings, where she will advocate for the EU’s commitment to substantial investments in technology and human capital while addressing regulatory measures to mitigate associated risks.

This transition also elevates Jourova’s position within the European Commission’s hierarchy, allowing her to play a more prominent role in shaping EU policies and initiatives. She will have a closer working relationship with Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, as she assumes her expanded responsibilities.

Regarding her new portfolio, Jourova expressed mixed feelings, highlighting her friendship with Margrethe Vestager, with whom she has worked closely. However, she emphasized the readiness to embrace this new challenge and contribute to the EU’s efforts in the digital transformation arena.

Jourova’s appointment to this critical role signifies the EU’s commitment to addressing the complex challenges and opportunities presented by digitalization, artificial intelligence, and global digital policy negotiations. Her experience and dedication are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the EU’s approach to these vital areas in the coming years.

Article by Prague Forum