Swedish conservative Jessika Roswell, the commissioner-designate for environment, water resilience, and circular economy, faced some doubts after a public hearing in front of the European Parliament committees. Despite the lack of confidence in her performance during the hearing, she has now been approved to take on the role. The decision was made after closed-door discussions among coordinators for various political groups in Brussels. Only a few political groups opposed her appointment, with the majority backing her, citing her commitment to defending environmental legislation.
Roswell expressed her gratitude for the broad support she received from the European Parliament’s environment committee. Green groups in Brussels welcomed her promise to stay committed to the European Green Deal and uphold environmental laws passed by the previous Commission. However, concerns were raised about her plans to scale up the European market for recycled materials, with calls for strict quality and toxic-free standards. The focus on implementing and enforcing existing legislation, such as the Water Framework Directive and Nature Directives, was seen as positive, as long as these protections are not weakened in the process.
The final decision on Roswell’s appointment was made in parallel with discussions surrounding the confirmation of another commissioner, sparking accusations of a political quid pro quo. The delay in Roswell’s confirmation was due to limited additional support from political groups. However, she received endorsements from the majority of groups, securing her position as the new commissioner. The upcoming formal endorsement of candidates by political group leaders on 21 November will be a crucial step in the process of appointing the new Commission.
In her new role, Roswell will oversee environmental policies concerning water resilience, circular economy, and other related issues. She faces the challenge of living up to the expectations set by the European Green Deal and upholding key environmental legislation. Green groups are hopeful that she will prioritize the implementation and enforcement of existing laws, without compromising on environmental protections. The approval of her appointment marks another step towards the formation of the new Commission, pending a full plenary vote by MEPs at the end of the month.
Overall, Roswell’s appointment as the next environment commissioner comes after initial doubts raised during her public hearing. Despite concerns about her performance and commitment to environmental issues, she has received the necessary support from political groups in the European Parliament. As she prepares to take on her new role, there will be a focus on her ability to uphold environmental legislation and drive progress in areas such as circular economy and water resilience. The formal endorsement of candidates on 21 November will be a crucial milestone in the process of forming the new Commission.
