Spain's deputy prime minister, Teresa Ribera, will lead the European Commission's initiatives on clean transition and antitrust enforcement, marking a significant role in the upcoming EU executive under Ursula von der Leyen. Ribera is one of six executive vice-presidents, alongside other notable figures like Stéphane Séjourné, who will manage industrial policy, and Raffaele Fitto, responsible for funding poorer regions. Von der Leyen's team reflects a careful balance of geography, political affiliation, and gender, with four of the six vice-presidents being women.
Ribera has been a strong supporter of the European Green Deal, advocating for ambitious climate targets, including the goal for the EU to become climate-neutral by 2050.
She has emphasized the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources, arguing that Spain can become a leader in solar and wind energy production.
Ribera's appointment is particularly noteworthy as she steps into a powerful position that includes overseeing the EU's climate agenda. Her outspoken nature and previous criticisms of von der Leyen's alliances suggest she may bring a more assertive approach to her role.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/sep/17/spain-socialist-teresa-ribera-eu-role-climate-antitrust-european-commission-ursula-von-der-leyen