EU Weighs Diplomatic Service Reform, Limits on Kallas's Role

France and Germany are discussing a major reform of the European Union's diplomatic service, the European External Action Service (EEAS), which was established around 15 years ago, according to the Financial Times. Several member states are considering limiting the powers of EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and transferring some responsibilities back to the European Commission or national governments.

The discussions reflect growing doubts about the EU's ability to respond effectively to geopolitical crises. Criticism has emerged in particular in connection with the war in Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East and tensions in relations with the US and China.

A number of countries have pointed to overlapping responsibilities between the EEAS, national foreign ministries and various European Commission departments.

One option under consideration is limiting the autonomy of the EU's chief diplomat and regulating the functioning of the network of more than 140 delegations worldwide. Budget questions are also on the table, with some member states calling for savings and a streamlining of EU institutions in Brussels.

Kallas said she welcomed the debate and acknowledged that the system could work better, but stressed that her goal remains a strong European diplomatic service and a more effective common foreign and security policy. Possible changes are also being discussed in the context of a new EU security strategy that the Commission is expected to present during the summer.

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