EUs von der Leyen survives parliament confidence vote brought by far-right
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Von der Leyen Survives EU Parliament No-Confidence Vote
Above: Ursula von der Leyen speaks at the reconstruction conference for Ukraine on July 10, 2025. Image copyright: Michael Kappeler/picture alliance/Getty Images
The Spin
Right narrative
This vote exposed the Commission's dangerous drift toward authoritarianism and corruption. Von der Leyen's refusal to release the Pfizer texts, despite court rulings, shows a blatant disregard for transparency and the rule of law. The EU's excessive bureaucracy in climate policies has imposed massive costs, while decision-making has become increasingly opaque and discretionary.
Left narrative
The motion was nothing more than a far-right public relations stunt designed to destabilize democratic institutions during a time of global uncertainty. Von der Leyen successfully led the EU's vaccine procurement for 450 million citizens during the pandemic, ensuring equal access across member states. This extremist playbook seeks to polarize society and erode trust in democracy when Europe needs strength and unity.