Thierry Breton announced his resignation from his position as European Commissioner on 16 September. In the process, Emmanuel Macron chose Stéphane Séjourné to succeed Jacques Chirac’s former economy minister in the team that will surround Ursula von der Leyen for her second term. In an interview with MondayThierry Breton analyzes the balance of power within the new community executive, where, in his opinion, France’s place is less strong and he fears that it is too much at the service of Germany and the European People’s Party (EPP).
Can you remember the conditions of your resignation?
This matter is not about me, but about France’s role and its place in Europe.
Does that mean?
When Ursula von der Leyen became president of the Commission for a first term in 2019, Emmanuel Macron, one of the architects of her appointment, wanted France to have an important portfolio. Since Germany held the presidency of the Commission, for the first time in more than sixty years, the president wanted to ensure a Franco-German balance within the institution. This balance was fundamental for the European dynamics of the twenty-seven. It is in this context that I was entrusted with the internal market, industry including defence, space and digital, tourism and even the media.
For her second term, Ursula von der Leyen was not prepared to give so much power to France?
I was the candidate for commissioner appointed by France on July 25. In the days before her college’s presentation to the European Parliament on September 17, Ursula von der Leyen made it known at the highest level that France had to make a decision. Either I would have a broad portfolio with someone other than me for the position or, if I maintained my candidacy, I would have a narrower portfolio. Therefore, I decided to withdraw with full knowledge of the facts.
Was Stéphane Séjourné then offered broad responsibilities?
The answer to this question can be found in the architecture of the future Commission that Ursula von der Leyen wants to implement for her second term. There will be six executive vice presidents, including Stéphane Séjourné, compared to the current three. Its role has been considerably diluted. Especially since none of these six executive vice presidents benefit from the experience acquired by having already held a commissioner position. A first.
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