France and Germany Discuss Overhaul of EU Diplomatic Service

France and Germany are discussing proposals for a fundamental reform of the European Union’s 15-year-old diplomatic service, according to the Financial Times. Five high-ranking officials said the options include transferring powers from EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and the European External Action Service (EEAS) back to the European Commission and member states.

The EEAS operates with an annual budget of 1 billion euros. One official described the service as dysfunctional and stated that structural problems require the body to be rebuilt. Another official cited a risk of the EEAS disintegrating.

A French government assessment shared with member states includes options to limit the independence of the high representative. The proposal would reduce her control over a network of more than 140 delegations managed by the EEAS. Proponents of the restructuring stated the changes are possible without modifying EU treaties.

Officials reported a power struggle between the EEAS and the European Commission led by Ursula von der Leyen. Von der Leyen has established a “geopolitical commission” and appointed the first EU defense commissioner. She is also considering an intelligence-sharing unit, a move Kallas opposes.

Moving powers to Commission and Council directorates could reduce costs by cutting jobs, officials said. Several member states cited a lack of coordination between the EEAS, national foreign ministries, and Commission directorates. Concerns were also raised regarding Kallas’s individual statements on China and proposals not yet adopted by member states.

A spokesperson for Kallas said she is focused on her duties and that EU foreign policy is strongest when member states are united. A German official stated the country seeks to improve decision-making processes and strengthen common foreign policy.

Restructuring discussions coincide with negotiations for the next EU budget and a new security strategy expected this summer. The French assessment of potential solutions is currently being discussed bilaterally between EU governments.