Ursula von der Leyen Survives No-Confidence Vote Amid Political Turmoil

In a significant political showdown on July 10, 2025, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, successfully navigated a no-confidence vote instigated by far-right factions within the European Parliament. The outcome, with 360 votes against the motion and 175 in favor, has highlighted the precariousness of her leadership amidst rising discontent and ideological divisions among Member States (MEPs).

The no-confidence vote marked the first of its kind since 2014, underscoring a growing political divide in the EU, particularly as von der Leyen's policies have increasingly aligned with right-leaning ideologies, causing friction with traditional allies in the center-left factions. "This is her absolute last chance," cautioned Katarina Barley, Vice President of the European Parliament, reflecting the sentiments of many MEPs who feel the need for accountability in the Commission's direction.

Despite von der Leyen receiving the backing of her own European People's Party (EPP) and support from the Socialists, Greens, and liberals of Renew, many members from these groups abstained from voting, raising concerns about her leadership and the future stability of her coalition. The political landscape in the EU appears increasingly fractious, with the no-confidence motion serving as a platform for various political factions to express their grievances against the Commission.

Gheorghe Piperea, a member of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), who initiated the no-confidence motion, commented that while he anticipated the motion to fail, it was a necessary exercise in democratic accountability. He predicted further censure attempts, suggesting this vote could "open Pandora’s box" for future challenges against the Commission president.

In response to the political turmoil, von der Leyen made concessions related to the EU's long-term budget, promising to retain the European Social Fund aimed at combating poverty, a move that likely swayed some MEPs to abstain from supporting the no-confidence motion. This concession reflects a calculated strategy to maintain support from the center-left factions, who have expressed dissatisfaction with the Commission's perceived shift to the right.

As political tensions rise, the implications for von der Leyen’s leadership are profound. Analysts suggest that the outcome of this vote may not signify a resolution to the underlying issues facing her administration but rather highlight the fragility of her position. The upcoming presentation of the Commission's budget will be critical, as it will test the waters for further support from a parliament increasingly vocal in its dissent.

The no-confidence vote could also signify a broader shift within EU politics, where the balance of power is in flux, and the traditional coalitions that once supported the Commission president may no longer hold firm. Political observers are keenly watching how von der Leyen will navigate these turbulent waters, as her ability to maintain unity among the Member States is more crucial than ever.