European Union member states have so far declined to support sweeping changes to the bloc’s diplomatic service or to reduce the authority of High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas. However, the discussion over reform is far from over. France and Germany have already presented proposals to adjust the European External Action Service (EEAS), aiming to create a more efficient and better-coordinated EU foreign policy.
Ministers Reluctant to Change the Current Model
The future of the European diplomatic service was a central topic at a meeting of foreign ministers from EU member countries.
After the talks, Kallas indicated that there is broad support among the ministers for the current institutional framework. Nevertheless, she acknowledged that there is consensus on the need to improve how the system functions.
This means the core structure of the EEAS will remain in place for now. The debate is now shifting to how EU diplomacy should operate in practice and how coordination among the various institutions might be improved.
France and Germany Push for Change
The reform debate has gained momentum, particularly due to initiatives from France and Germany.
Both countries have argued for discussing changes to the functioning of the EEAS and the role of the EU’s High Representative. One proposal under discussion involves transferring some diplomatic competences to the European Commission.
This model would strengthen Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s role in coordinating EU foreign policy, with Kallas working in closer connection with the Commission.
However, no final decisions have been made. The proposals remain subject to ongoing political negotiation among member states.
What Is Driving the Reform Talks?
The European External Action Service was established to coordinate EU foreign policy and present a unified front in the Union’s dealings with international partners.
Its functioning is unique: Kallas is not only the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, but also a Vice-President of the European Commission.
The EEAS operates at the intersection of EU member states, the European Commission, and other institutions. This division of competences is a key reason why the question of reform keeps resurfacing.
Supporters of reform believe the EU needs to respond more rapidly and with greater unity to international crises.
Kallas Still Heads EU Diplomacy
The latest discussions do not mean Kallas is being dismissed from her position or that her mandate is changing.
Kallas continues to lead the EEAS and represents the EU in foreign and security policy. The debate is mainly about institutional structures and the division of powers.
Her role is frequently discussed as part of the wider debate on how the EU diplomatic service should function. Some proposals would strengthen her position, while others would shift responsibilities to the Commission or member states.
EU Foreign Policy Faces Challenging Times
The reform discussions are taking place at a time when the EU faces multiple security and geopolitical challenges simultaneously.
Key issues include the war in Ukraine, relations with Russia, European defense policy, and ties with the United States. Member states are also deliberating on how the Union should address a changing security environment.
The war in Ukraine has highlighted the importance of harmonizing the foreign policies of member states. Kallas has been actively involved in supporting Ukraine and coordinating European assistance.
We have also reported on further steps to strengthen cooperation between the EU and Ukraine in our article “EU Continues Support for Ukraine: New Decisions on Defense and Integration.”
Reform Could Continue Despite Current Consensus
The fact that member states have so far backed the current arrangements does not mean the debate is over.
France and Germany remain committed to seeking ways to make EU foreign policy more effective. In the coming months, discussions may focus on concrete EEAS competences, its relationship to the Commission, and the role of member states.
The key question is whether member countries can agree on specific changes. Any alteration to the EEAS structure would require resolving the division of powers between European institutions and national governments.
For now, European diplomacy continues to operate within the existing framework, but the debate over its future is ongoing.
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This article was translated from the original Slovak version with the assistance of AI.
