EU-Social Democrats Spitzenkandidat: Europe is Schmit’s Destiny
In the midst of the election campaign, Luxembourg’s Nicolas Schmit was barely visible. That is, until he took on Commission President Ursula von der Leyen over her lack of clear distinction from right-wing parties.
Nicolas Schmit still smiles: Whether he will secure a position in the EU is uncertain. Photo: Liesa Johannssen/rtr
He comes across as the friendly uncle next door: Nicolas Schmit, the lead candidate for the European Social Democrats, exudes a likable yet reserved demeanor. The 70-year-old Luxembourger tiptoes softly, as if he wants to remain hidden, according to his critics. In fact, Schmit, who has been working as an EU Commissioner for Social Affairs in Brussels since 2019, needed some time to step out of the shadow of his powerful boss, Ursula von der Leyen.
While Schmit still does not appear on SPD election posters – the party relies on Chancellor Olaf Scholz and their lead candidate Katarina Barley. In his home country of Luxembourg, he faces challenges as the Social Democrats are no longer part of the government.
In Brussels, the Ph.D. in Economics scored points and delivered sharp criticism during a TV debate in the European Parliament. Schmit accused von der Leyen of failing to clearly distance herself from right-wing parties and betraying European values with deals such as those with Tunisia. In interviews, he continued to criticize: Von der Leyen had led the EU Commission autocratically over the past five years and had not involved her „Team Europe“ in important decisions. It almost sounded as if he wanted to end cooperation with his German boss. Yet, they have achieved a lot together.
Under Schmit’s leadership, the EU Commission has advocated for the harmonization and increase of minimum wages, as well as regulated platform work at companies like Uber & Co. Schmit himself did not believe he would achieve so much when he moved to Brussels. However, their accomplishments are at risk – not least due to the new EU debt rules forcing countries like France and Belgium to make social cuts. The EU Commissioner for Social Affairs, who was previously the Minister of Labor in Luxembourg, must fear for his political legacy.
For Schmit, it’s all or nothing.
Even his closest allies say he stands no chance against von der Leyen. His true goal is to rise to the position of Vice President – or to succeed Chief Diplomat Josep Borrell and lead the Foreign Service. For this, the unassuming man from Differdange, who enjoys roaming the country with his dogs in his spare time and drives an SUV, would need to be nominated by the conservative government in Luxembourg.
However, they already have another Christian Social candidate. If things go poorly, Schmit could end up empty-handed. It’s all on the line for him. His comrades want to set political conditions for a second term for von der Leyen – the role Schmit can play in this remains uncertain.