Key facts
- The European Commission is considering reforms to improve efficiency and talent acquisition.
- Proposals include stationing officials in EU capitals and streamlining recruitment.
- The Commission plans to hire an additional 1,500 staff under the next EU budget.
- The review aims to make the institution 'AI-ready' and better equipped for growing demands.
- Senior roles are expected to open due to upcoming retirements.
The European Commission is contemplating a significant overhaul of its internal operations, aiming to boost efficiency, attract top talent, and adapt to evolving geopolitical demands. Among the proposed changes is the idea of seconding officials to work in EU member state capitals, fostering closer ties and cross-pollination of ideas between the EU executive and national administrations.
These potential reforms are part of the Commission's first comprehensive workplace review in two decades, with final recommendations expected by the end of 2026. The review seeks to make the institution more competitive in the job market and better equipped to handle its expanding responsibilities, including trade tensions and support for Ukraine. A senior official involved in the review emphasized that the proposals focus on improving collaboration and reprioritizing work rather than restructuring departments or cutting staff.
To address growing demands, the Commission plans to hire an additional 1,500 staff under the EU's next seven-year budget, starting in 2028, alongside another 1,000 roles across other EU institutions. Commissioner Piotr Serafin highlighted concerns about the lengthy recruitment process, which can take two to three years, hindering the ability to attract the best talent. He also noted that the Commission currently employs around 1,500 fewer staff than in 2014, despite increased responsibilities.
Changes at the senior leadership level are also anticipated, with several key roles expected to become available due to retirements or officials moving to new positions. This includes the departure of Gert Jan Koopman from the DG ENEST enlargement department, potentially creating vacancies for figures like Michael Karnitschnig and Despina Spanou.