The Commission President suggests that the bloc should consider collaboration among smaller groups of countries if unanimous agreement proves elusive in advancing its economic agenda. Draghi advocated for a ‘pragmatic federalism’ ahead of a decisive summit.
Ursula von der Leyen proposed that nations willing to engage on economic issues proceed in smaller clusters when unanimity cannot be achieved ahead of a critical summit aimed at strengthening the European economy nestled between the US and China.
The European Commission chief emphasized that the objective remains to implement an «ambitious» economic agenda endorsed by all 27 member states, yet if political disagreements prevent this, member states should explore forming smaller alliances.
Her remarks follow Mario Draghi’s call — a prominent figure in European discourse — urging the EU to operate genuinely as a union and encouraging leaders to adopt a «pragmatic» federalist strategy for joint initiatives ranging from energy to security.
«Our goal must always be to secure consensus among all 27 member states,» von der Leyen stated in a letter addressed to leaders on Monday.
«Nevertheless, when a lack of progress or ambition threatens Europe’s competitiveness or ability to act, we must not hesitate to activate the treaty provisions enabling enhanced cooperation.»
The enhanced cooperation mechanism permits at least nine countries to deepen integration without involving all member states.
Von der Leyen’s statement marks a notable shift from the EU’s traditional consensus-based approach, opening the possibility for a multi-speed Europe.
European leaders will convene for an informal retreat on Thursday at Alden Biesen Castle.
Draghi will participate alongside the 27 leaders, joined by former Italian prime minister Enrico Letta.
Prior to the meeting, European Council President António Costa told Euronews the retreat aims to concentrate attention on implementing the Draghi and Letta reports released in 2024, providing «clear political guidance» for the leaders.
Before the summit, a group of 10 countries invited by Germany, Italy, and Belgium will meet to coordinate a unified stance. According to a diplomat, France will also be involved.
In her letter, von der Leyen indicated that the Commission intends to accelerate its simplification agenda while urging co-legislators in the European Parliament to adopt a constructive position.
She also mentioned that the executive will initiate a new campaign to reduce «gold-plating,» a process where member states impose additional bureaucracy beyond existing EU rules.
European companies have long criticized this practice, arguing it raises costs and causes regulatory complexities for businesses operating across Europe.
Additional reporting by Mared Gwyn Jones