During the 2019-2024 mandate, the President of the European Council and liberal and centrist European Commissioners led the way on liberal solutions for a brighter future.

They have tackled crises such as COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine, and pushed forward Europe’s green and digital transitions. Below, you can learn how some of their most notable policy achievements have made Europe safer, more competitive and more sustainable.

This article was originally published in ALDE Party's Liberal Bulletin in April 2024. Click here to read the full publication.

Charles Michel, President of the European Council:

• Led the EU COVID-19 response, coordinating efforts to mitigate the pandemic’s impact
• Guided EU support for Ukraine following the Russian invasion, emphasising solidarity and assistance
• Drove EU enlargement policy, granting candidate status to Bosnia and Herzegovina and Georgia, and initiating negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova

Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice President of the European Commission for A Europe Fit for the Digital Age:

• Regulated digital giants under the Digital Services Act, Digital Markets Act and the Data Act
• Reinforced the EU Single Market against corporate abuse and the Foreign Subsidies Regulation to maintain fair competition
• Advanced the common charger initiative to streamline consumer electronics

Věra Jourová, Vice President of the European Commission for Values and Transparency:

• Led efforts on the EU’s first law to combat violence against women and ratification of the Istanbul Convention
• Developed the European Democracy Action Plan and Defence of Democracy package, enhancing democratic integrity and transparency across the EU
• Formulated the European Media Freedom Act to protect media independence and freedom

Thierry Breton, European Commissioner for Internal Market:

• Coordinated joint procurement of COVID-19 vaccines, ensuring equitable access across the EU
• Spearheaded the AI Act and the Chips Act, preparing Europe for technological advancement

Janez Lenarčič, European Commissioner for Crisis Management:

• Established RescEU to enhance joint EU capabilities in responding to emergencies and disasters
• Promoted the EU as a global leader in humanitarian aid

Didier Reynders, European Commissioner for Justice:

• Implemented the Rule of Law mechanism and issued annual rule of law reports to uphold EU values
• Launched operations of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) in June 2021 to enhance cross-border judicial cooperation
• Enforced the General Product Safety regulation and New Consumer Agenda to ensure consumer safety

Kadri Simson, European Commissioner for Energy:

• Implemented energy emergency measures to ensure safe winters amidst high prices
• Led the initiative to become independent from Russian gas, focusing on diversification and the REPowerEU plan
• Positioned renewable energy as the foundation of the EU’s energy policy