In the article by Leonardo Quattruci, the focus is on the institutional competitiveness of the European Commission. Quattruci highlights the mismatch between the ambitious policy objectives of the Commission and the resources and capabilities available to achieve them. Despite an increase in the complexity of portfolios, there has been no significant growth in the number of employees at the European Commission over the years. This has resulted in a lack of specialised talent, particularly in areas such as digital policy, where the Commission has focused its legislative efforts.
The European AI Office was established to address the shortage of technologists within the Commission, but its efforts have fallen short of significantly boosting resources and authority in this area. Quattruci emphasizes the importance of rationalizing resources to ensure that the right staff are in place to implement policies effectively. Building state capacity within the Commission should be a political priority, rather than just a technical requirement. This involves aligning institutional means with political ends and acquiring new skills to meet the demands of the modern age.
Quattruci advocates for a flexible hiring approach to bring in the right talent for the right job within the European Commission. Drawing inspiration from successful initiatives like the Presidential Innovation Fellowships in the U.S., he suggests that the Commission needs policy-entrepreneurs-in-chief to drive digital transformation and innovation within the institution. By empowering mission-driven projects and individuals with the right skills and resources, the Commission can enhance its implementational capacity and achieve its objectives more effectively.
The article points out that the Directorate-General for Reform is a key arm of the European Commission tasked with growing state capacity in member states. However, there is a need for a similar focus on internal transformation within the Commission itself. The current lack of operational excellence and underinvestment in institutional capacity hinder innovation and efficiency. Quattruci emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing implementers within the Commission, as they play a critical role in driving progress and achieving policy goals.
In conclusion, Quattruci calls on the European Commission to prioritize its own competitiveness as an institution. By addressing the mismatch between policy objectives and resources, investing in the right talent, and prioritizing digital transformation, the Commission can enhance its effectiveness and drive forward its mission. The time has come for the Commission to heed the call to “physician, heal thyself” and take steps to strengthen its institutional capacity for the challenges ahead.
