The European Union is on the cusp of formally appointing a new team of 26 commissioners tasked with executing President Ursula von der Leyen's policy agenda for the next five years. While the final vote is expected next week, it appears highly likely that the new European Commission will be operational by December 1, according to Politico’s Brussels Playbook. Among these appointments, three commissioner-designates stand out for their potential impact on technology policies, particularly in areas such as digital infrastructure, tech investment, and regulation of major technology companies.

Teresa Ribera Rodríguez

Competition and Climate Enforcer Teresa Ribera Rodríguez, who is poised to take on a significant executive role, will oversee a portfolio that combines economic transformation and climate strategies. Notably, she will also manage competition enforcement, assuming responsibilities that have previously posed challenges for companies like Apple and Google. Under her purview, the Digital Markets Act (DMA)—a key regulatory reform aimed at curbing the power of big tech platforms—will see robust enforcement steps. Ribera Rodríguez will inherit several active DMA investigations and is expected to continue scrutinizing major players such as Apple, Meta, and Google. Outcomes of these probes are anticipated next year, and further actions against other designated gatekeepers, including Amazon, are on the horizon. The DMA allows for penalties that can reach 10% of global annual turnover, forcing tech giants toward compliance, for instance, prompting Apple to allow web distribution of iOS apps. Beyond DMA, Ribera Rodríguez's role extends to classical competition regulation. She is committed to accelerating EU competition policy enforcement and cracking down on "killer acquisitions" that stifle innovation. Her influence could significantly shape the EU's approach to platform economies and data-driven business models.

Henna Virkkunen

Champion of Tech Sovereignty and Security Henna Virkkunen will lead efforts in digital governance, focusing on innovation and the adoption of frontier technologies. Her responsibilities include steering initiatives around artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and infrastructure enhancements. Among her immediate priorities is the enforcement of the newly enacted EU AI Act, although von der Leyen has tasked her with prioritizing AI-driven innovation. Virkkunen will also play a crucial role in implementing the Digital Services Act (DSA), which aims to ensure digital platforms operate responsibly. This includes monitoring ongoing probes into major platforms like Facebook and TikTok. Her focus will extend to addressing dark patterns, enhancing online child safety, and countering digital disinformation.

Ekaterina Zaharieva

Advocate for Startups and Innovation Although not an executive vice president, Ekaterina Zaharieva will be influential in fostering a supportive environment for startups and research across Europe. Her initiatives include the development of a "European Innovation Act" designed to simplify regulatory frameworks and improve access to venture capital. Zaharieva is also tasked with proposing a "European Research Area Act" to boost the movement of researchers and technology, enhancing the EU's competitiveness through increased innovation investment. Zaharieva aims to expand the European Innovation Council’s network to foster deep-tech investments, driving collaboration between public and private sectors to stimulate homegrown innovation.

These incoming commissioners are set to direct the EU's technology policy over the coming years, influencing everything from competition law to tech sovereignty. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, their decisions will be pivotal in shaping the digital landscape across the European Union.

The link has been copied!