Roberta Metsola, a 45-year-old Maltese conservative, was re-elected President of the European Parliament by an overwhelming majority during the first plenary session following the June elections in Strasbourg. A member of the European People’s Party (EPP), the largest political force in Parliament, Metsola secured 562 votes against 61 for her sole opponent, Spanish radical leftist Irene Montero.
A presidency marked by commitment and reforms
Re-elected for a new two-and-a-half-year term, Roberta Metsola emphasized the need to strengthen the European Parliament to maintain pressure on the European Commission, enhance oversight and investigative powers, and address institutional imbalances. “We need a strong Parliament in a strong Union,” she declared. Metsola highlighted the importance of rekindling enthusiasm and belief in the European project, particularly by strengthening the social pillar of the European Union.
She also acknowledged in French the location of the institution’s seat in Strasbourg, calling it a “living symbol of reconciliation” within Europe. Metsola concluded her speech by affirming that “Europe remains the answer” and proclaiming, “Long live Europe!”
Brought to the presidency in early 2022 through an agreement between the EPP, the Socialists (S&D), and the Liberals (Renew), Metsola was then the youngest person to lead the assembly and only the third woman to hold the position, following the Frenchwomen Simone Veil and Nicole Fontaine.
Achievements and ongoing challenges
Roberta Metsola has distinguished herself with her active support for Ukraine. She was the first EU institution leader to visit Kyiv after the start of the Russian offensive. Under her leadership, the European Parliament adopted Green Deal environmental legislation, regulations imposed on digital giants, and the EU Migration Pact.
However, her term has not been without challenges. The Qatargate scandal, involving suspicions of corruption by Qatar and Morocco, erupted in December 2022. Eva Kaili, then Vice-President and Greek Socialist MEP, was arrested and stripped of her functions. Metsola promised “extensive reforms” to restore the institution’s credibility through better controls and transparency registers. “We are committed to fostering a working environment where all employees are treated with dignity and respect,” Metsola had stated.
Metsola’s career is closely tied to the history of Malta. As a student, she joined the Maltese Nationalist Party and campaigned for her country’s EU membership in 2003. A Doctor of Law, educated at the College of Europe in Bruges, she worked for Malta’s permanent representation to the EU before becoming an MEP in 2013.
Abortion and controversial positions
Roberta Metsola, opposed to abortion, had voted against resolutions condemning the ban on abortion in Poland and Texas in 2021. However, upon her accession to the presidency, she committed to defending the official positions of the institution. “I pledge to go further in ensuring and defending women’s rights and countering violence against women,” she had declared, reaffirming these priorities during her re-election speech.
This stance was crucial in maintaining the unity and credibility of the European Parliament, demonstrating her commitment to uphold the collective values and positions of the institution despite her personal convictions.
Roberta Metsola has not only strengthened the role of the European Parliament but also demonstrated that female leadership can break barriers. Her re-engagement as president symbolizes not only a personal victory but also an advancement for the representation of women in high political offices within the European Union. “Europe remains the answer. Long live Europe!” she proclaimed, embodying the spirit of resilience and progress that defines her presidency.
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