Political Leadership in Turbulent Times - The Commission Presidency of Jean-Claude Junker

Despite the controversy between proponents of “new intergovernmentalism” and their critics, there is a common understanding that the Commission has lost influence within the political system of the EU. Against this background, the question arises whether there is still room for the Commission president to exercise political leadership. Since the Commission is not a fully-fledged executive, such leadership focuses on shaping European policy-making and deepening integration. In the present situation, it might also aim at strengthening the position of the Commission. This paper aims at exploring the leadership performance of Jean-Claude Juncker as Commission president. It questions whether, to which extent and how successful Juncker pursues the three goals mentioned above. Drawing on classical leadership theory and recent insights into political leadership at European level, the article elaborates an analytical framework focused on Juncker's performance within an institutional setting of collective leadership and an extremely unfavourable situational context. Methodologically, the study is based on a qualitative approach, drawing on primary sources (speeches, White papers, etc.) and expert interviews with office holders at European and national level. Empirically, the analysis identifies Juncker's room for manoeuvre within a context of institutional and situational opportunities and constraints. It analyzes Juncker's performance in using strategically his agenda-setting and procedural powers for shaping EU policy-making, deepening integration and strengthening the position of the Commission. It concludes that Juncker, in face of multiple constraints, introduced a new, more political leadership style, marked by boldly restoring the Commission's role as 'engine of integration', yet adopting an open and conciliatory stance vis-á-vis the European Council and, more broadly, potential followers. This article thus deepens insights into the nature and potential of providing political guidance under conditions of shared leadership and abundant euro-scepticism.