Blogs of the European Commissioners
Margot Wallström
As Commissioner for Institutional Relations and Communication since August 2004, it is my job to improve the way 'Europe' is communicated to its citizens. This blog has been set up partly with that in mind. Here, you can read my views on anything from humanitarian aid and enlargement to women in government and mobile phone roaming charges. You can also communicate directly back to me by posting a comment on any one of my articles.
Jacques Barrot
As European Commission Vice President for justice, freedom and security, I strongly believe that this area is key to the future of European integration. Protecting citizens, respecting privacy, free movement, fundamental rights, fighting all forms of discrimination, better police and judicial cooperation, dealing with the challenges of migration flows and asylum. All these topics are of major importance for Europe! In my posts I comment on issues which have marked my week, particularly those related to my portfolio and those making European and international headlines.
Viviane Reding
As the European Union's Commissioner for Telecoms and Media, I'm responsible for those common European policies that have a direct influence on your phone bill, on fair competition on the telecoms market and on support for European films and TV programmes. The internet offers tremendous new opportunities to all of us. This is why every week on my website, I talk about one of the many issues on my desk that concern you, EU citizens.
Stavros Dimas
The environment is a policy area where the EU delivers tangible benefits for its citizens in the form of an improved living and working conditions. It is also a policy area where a significant majority of European citizens support further and even more effective action. As the EU celebrates its first 50 years - and looks towards the next 50 years - it is clear that developing and implementing policies that can effectively protect Europe's environment will be at the heart of the European "project". My hope is that this diary will improve the level of debate and discussion on the shape that the next generation of environmental policies will take.
Janez Potočnik
As Commissioner for Science and Research since 2004, it is my objective to improve the situation for research and researchers in the EU. Through research we gain knowledge and knowledge is essential for growth and an enhanced quality of life. Here, in my blog, I share with you my views on a wide variety of topics affecting Europe.
Mariann Fischer Boel
As Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, it is my job to manage the European Union's Common Agricultural Policy. The CAP aims to support the production of good quality and safe food, help our farmers, promote jobs and businesses in rural areas, ensure the respect of environmental and animal welfare standards and preserve Europe's unique rural landscapes. The policy is not standing still. We are introducing a series of reforms, which aim above all to make our farmers more competitive and market-orientated. Here, in my blog, I want to share with you my thoughts as I travel around Europe talking to the people in the front line on a range of issues pertaining to agriculture, food and the rural environment.
Neelie Kroes
As European Commissioner for Competition, my aim is to promote a fair and free environment for business in Europe. The Single Market is a precious achievement, and the best way to keep it functioning effectively is to ensure competition between companies. My job is about acting as a referee of this process. If we think of the European economy as football match: I set and enforce the rules of the game, in conjunction with the other Commissioners. We make sure it is a fair match, and that there is punishment for people and companies that break the rules and spoil the game for others
Vladimir Špidla
As Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities, I believe that to maintain the European social model we have to preserve our core values of social justice, equality, respect for rights and dignity for every individual. At the same time, we need to carry out a major reform of our labour markets and social protection systems. Personally speaking, this is the best way for Europe to cope with today’s realities of globalisation and the ageing of our populations. Meeting these two challenges will help us to achieve our goal of creating more and better jobs in Europe. For me, this is a "Social Imperative" - it is my number one priority.
Andris Piebalgs
Energy is one of the driving forces for our society. We are facing energy and environmental challenges ahead of us that need to be addressed on the European level. As the Energy Commissioner I am fully committed to secure competitive and clean energy for our citizens. I would like to use my blog as a place to engage in an active discussion with people who are interested in energy matters. I will post my views on different energy related questions and I hope to receive your comments, suggestions or listen to your experience.
Meglena Kuneva
As Commissioner for Consumer Affairs, I believe that empowering consumers makes the markets function better. This, in turn, ensures a better market situation for consumers. I work towards the goal of putting consumers in the driving seat, giving them real choices, accurate information and the confidence that comes from effective protection. Through my blog, I will share my views and experiences as Consumer Commissioner, and I hope that it will stimulate discussion on a range of issues on consumer policy.
