European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for a reevaluation of the European Union's unanimity requirement, a fundamental tenet necessary for decision-making among member states. She advocates for a mechanism that would enable smaller groups of like-minded countries to address economic issues even if they do not have the full agreement of all 27 member states. This proposal comes in light of recent practices where decisions have been made with the consent of only 15 member states, circumventing dissent from certain nations.

This move reflects the increasing tension within the EU, particularly with regards to certain member states such as Hungary and Slovakia, which have criticized the frequent bypassing of unanimity as an infringement on national sovereignty. The recent rhetoric from Von der Leyen emphasizes that while the goal should be consensus among all member states, practical realities are forcing the EU to explore alternative paths for progress. The bloc has found itself needing to act swiftly on pressing issues, including energy imports and the handling of Russian assets, pushing it towards more flexible decision-making processes.

Von der Leyen's proposal raises important implications for the future functioning of the EU, potentially reshaping how member states interact and collaborate on economic policies. While it aims to enhance efficiency and address urgent matters more promptly, it could also lead to deeper divisions and challenges regarding the EU's foundational principle of collective decision-making. As this conversation unfolds, the responses from various member states will be crucial in determining the balance between unity and operational flexibility within the bloc.