European MEPs have approved Ursula von der Leyen’s team for her second term as European Commission president, which includes new commissioners for culture, technology, and the Creative Europe Media programme. Henna Virkkunen from Finland will serve as executive vice-president for tech sovereignty, security, and democracy, focusing on AI, copyright, media regulation, and support for the audiovisual sector. Malta’s Glenn Micallef will be commissioner for intergenerational fairness, youth, culture, and sport, with a specific focus on improving working conditions for artists and developing an AI strategy for the cultural and creative industries.
The commissioner team was confirmed after a rigorous process that started with the European election in June. Some 370 members of the European Parliament voted in favor of the new group of 26 commissioners along with von der Leyen, who will serve a five-year term starting from December 1. Each candidate underwent a suitability assessment by the European Parliament, including written questions and appearances before key committees.
The approval of this new team marks an important step in shaping European policies on tech, culture, and media for the upcoming term. With a focus on digital sovereignty, security, and support for the creative industries, the commissioners are expected to play a crucial role in advancing Europe’s position in these key areas. Their mandate reflects a commitment to promoting innovation, protecting cultural diversity, and ensuring fair working conditions for artists and cultural professionals across the EU.
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