Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, faces an intensifying political challenge as an internal document linked to the French government proposes a structural overhaul of her office. The proposal outlines three potential paths for the role, ranging from expanding her portfolio into trade and economic development to significantly weakening her influence by shifting power to the European Commission or individual member states, according to reports seen by Euronews.
Why is the French government questioning the High Representative’s role?
The informal French document surfaced amid growing friction between Kallas and several EU member states. Critics, including Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, have publicly called for her removal. According to multiple diplomats speaking on condition of anonymity, the backlash stems from Kallas’s assertive stance on Russia, her vocal position on China, and her tendency to propose policies without prior consultation with national capitals.
While France has since characterized the document as an exploratory note rather than official policy, the move highlights a broader trend of institutional dissatisfaction. Some diplomats suggest that France is currently targeting multiple EU institutions, and the critique of Kallas is part of a wider effort to recalibrate how the bloc manages its diplomatic priorities.
The High Representative position is uniquely complex because it occupies two roles simultaneously: it serves as a vice president of the European Commission and as the head of the European External Action Service (EEAS).
How do EU treaties limit the High Representative?
Kallas has publicly addressed the controversy by reminding staff that the EU treaties define the mandate of her office. “The roles and responsibilities of the EU institutions are clearly defined in the treaties. That framework remains unchanged,” Kallas stated in an internal email. Despite this, the structural reality of the role remains a “mission impossible” for many observers, according to senior diplomats.
The primary constraint is the requirement for unanimity in foreign policy decisions. Because all 27 member states must agree, a single dissenting voice can halt any initiative. This creates a disconnect where the High Representative is expected to lead a policy that she cannot independently control, often leaving her caught between the individual interests of capitals and the executive ambitions of the European Commission.
Is there a power struggle with the European Commission?
Tensions have risen between the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen. Under von der Leyen, the Commission has increasingly adopted a “geopolitical” posture, often taking the lead on international responses to crises like the energy sector and trade tensions with China.
Some diplomats argue that this Commission-led approach undermines the mandate of the High Representative. While a spokesperson for von der Leyen stated that the Commission provides full support to the EEAS, the reality of the daily power dynamic suggests otherwise. As the Commission expands its influence into areas traditionally held by diplomats, the space for the High Representative to act becomes increasingly narrow.
To track how EU foreign policy evolves, follow the official EEAS press releases. These documents often provide the most accurate view of the bloc’s official consensus compared to informal policy papers.
What happens if the High Representative role is reformed?
If the EU moves to reform the office, the outcome will likely hinge on whether member states prioritize national control or a unified, Commission-driven foreign policy. Historical precedent suggests that the structural limitations are not tied to the individual holding the office, but to the design of the position itself. Previous officeholders have faced similar criticisms regarding their inability to build consensus across the Council.
If the role is weakened, the EU risks losing a dedicated, high-level voice for its foreign interests. If it is strengthened, it would require a significant shift in how member states surrender control over their sovereign foreign policy agendas. Currently, the lack of consensus among the 27 states remains the most significant hurdle to any effective reform.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is the current High Representative? Kaja Kallas holds the position, serving as the EU’s foreign policy chief.
- Why is the French government involved in this debate? France circulated an informal document exploring options to either strengthen or weaken the High Representative’s powers.
- Can the High Representative be easily replaced? No, the mandate is tied to the EU treaties and is determined by leaders at the start of each five-year term.
- What is the biggest obstacle to EU foreign policy? The requirement for unanimity among the 27 member states often prevents decisive action.
Stay informed on the latest shifts in European policy. Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly analysis on how institutional changes impact the continent’s future.
