It is time to shift our gaze to the figure, so far behind the scenes, of Antonio Costa and to the European Council, the body that he will preside over, if we want to understand in advance and completely the events and dynamics of Europe. The political caliber of the man and the strategic nature of the body’s role legitimately predict that he will be a strong actor for the future of Europe and that the European Council will have a central role. So far the focus has been on the Commission and this will continue until the examination of the Commissioners and the final vote of the Parliament. The stage was occupied, and still is, by Ursula von der Leyen, who, with a lot of determination and skill in moving between the Greens and the ECR, pursues the objective of an encore with the new Collége, from a terrible Orbán who, fortunately for everyone, is already at the end of his semester, from a Kallas not yet on track in her dual role, and from an impeccable Roberta Metsola, who, a rare practice, had the second mandate. But a veil of disinterest has spread over Costa, partly because he will only come into play in December but above all because the importance of the European Council or its task has not been understood.
There are two profiles to consider: the political one and the institutional one. Politically, Antonio Costa represents the position obtained by the European socialists in the quartet of top jobs decided in July. This element is not secondary in the post-election political framework. The political axis, in the Parliament and in the Commission, has shifted to the right and, although the Greens voted for von der Leyen, today the aspirations of the conservatives to enter the decision-making game count a lot. The number of Patriots, although isolated, as well as the ambiguous choices of the People’s Party to attract conservatives into their political orbit, lead to a potential “double oven” and weaken the majority. The socialists, historical pillars with the popular and liberals of the European institutions, want to contribute with their heritage of ideas and their vision of Europe to strategic choices.
Furthermore, Costa’s CV is successful: he brought a country on the brink of disaster to advanced and innovative development, good employment and put the accounts in order. He is recognized for rigor, competence and great mediation ability.
On an institutional level, the picture must be clarified which in Italy is little known and confusing. One thing is the Council of the European Union, also known as just the Council, composed on rotation of the Ministers of the member countries depending on the matters under discussion, which has a six-monthly presidency (today it is Orbán) and which legislates (directives and regulations) together to the other legislator, the Parliament. Another body, much more important, is the European Council, which will be chaired by Costa (and now, for the last Council, by Michel), composed of the Heads of State or Government. The European Council has an essential role in defining the most important priorities, strategies and positions: it is a political protagonist, both for foreign policy and for major internal decisions and on the world stage. But it can go further and decide on new initiatives to develop, beyond the legal bases or consolidated skills, giving the Commission a mandate to prepare legislative acts or plans on new frontiers of intervention. This was the case for the Next Generation EU and many years ago, for the first acts of common energy policy, when it was the European Council that gave this task to the Commission.
Furthermore, the Council is the forum where the differences in the political position of the countries can find a point of settlement, overcoming nationalistic approaches and positions to seek a more communitarian point of balance. The dynamics that will be created between the three bodies: Commission, European Council and Parliament will be interesting. The choices on integration, financing and major policies will depend on these. In the past, in the real relationships between the three institutions, and not in the static nature of the legal architecture, people and their charisma had weight. At times there has been an agreement between the Commission and Parliament to push towards greater integration compared to a Council stuck on nationalist logic. In others, for example with the Barroso presidency, dominated by the governments of the countries, Parliament has created a strong axis with some Prime Ministers on more pro-European issues.
From this perspective, Antonio Costa will be a surprise in terms of weight and quality. His task will be important to help leaders who today are much weaker and need each other more find greater strength in common action. It will be essential because the “green disc” will have to come from the European Council for common indebtedness, for the reform, albeit gradual, of governance, for the launch of major policies for green development, for competitiveness, for welfare, security and for European protagonism on the world stage. If Costa is able to create an agreement between the most willing countries in the Council, overcoming the fractures between North and South or East and West, it will have leadership on the European scene. And this is really needed.
How might Costa’s background as a Socialist Prime Minister influence his approach to tackling issues like economic inequality and social welfare within the European Union?
## The Rise of Antonio Costa: Steering Europe’s Future?
Welcome to World Today News. Today, we delve into the quiet rise of a powerful figure in European politics: Antonio Costa. Joining us are [Guest 1 Name and Expertise] and [Guest 2 Name and Expertise] to discuss the implications of Costa’s new role and the challenges and opportunities facing the European Council.
**Section 1: The Man Behind the Title**
* **[To Guest 1]:**
The article highlights Costa’s successful track record in Portugal. How relevant is his experience to his new role as President of the European Council?
* **[To Guest 2]:**
Considering the current political landscape in Europe, particularly the shift to the right, what unique strengths does Costa bring to the table compared to previous European leaders?
**Section 2: Deciphering the European Council**
* **[To Both Guests]:**
Many are unfamiliar with the European Council and its powers compared to the European Commission. Can you explain the distinct roles of these institutions and how their dynamics shape European decision-making?
* **[To Guest 2]:**
The article mentions the “veil of disinterest” surrounding the European Council. Why do you think this body receives less attention than the Commission, and how might this impact its effectiveness?
**Section 3: Navigating a Divided Europe**
* **[To Guest 1]:**
The article points to divisions within the European Union, particularly between North and South. How will Costa approach these internal fractures, and can he realistically bridge the gap between member states with varying economic and political priorities?
* **[To Guest 2]:** :
What are the most pressing issues facing the European Union today? In your opinion, what role should the European Council play in addressing these challenges, such as climate change, economic instability, and global security threats?
**Section 4: The Future of Europe under Costa**
* **[To Both Guests]: **
The article suggests Costa could be a “surprise” in terms of leadership. What are your expectations for his tenure as President of the European Council? Will he be a driving force for change or primarily a caretaker figure?
* **[Concluding Question]:** What message do you want to leave our viewers with regarding Antonio Costa and the future direction of the European Union?
