Czech MEPs oppose Teresa Ribera for EU climate commissioner

Prague (The Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Czech MEPs in the EU Parliament have made it explicit that they resist the candidacy of Spanish candidate Teresa Ribera for the position of European commissioner responsible for the climate agenda.

Given her background in climate policy, Teresa Ribera is anticipated to lead the EU’s green agenda. However, her perspective on nuclear energy and her alignment with the EU’s current climate targets have provoked a backlash from Czech politicians as the national government is pro-nuclear and suspicious of European climate policies.

What Concerns Do Czech Politicians Have About Ribera’s Climate Policies?

Ondřej Knotek of the ANO party, a component of the Patriots for Europe group, has voiced serious suspicions about Ribera’s suitability for the position. “Her support for the current direction, which is neither beneficial for the EU’s economy nor for global climate goals, is a major concern,” Czech MEP Ondřej Knotek said. Other Czech MEPs reflect this view, seeing Ribera as an adversary of nuclear energy—a stance many see as harmful to the EU’s diverse energy strategy. 

How Does Teresa Ribera’s Stance on Nuclear Energy Affect Her EU Candidacy?

Ribera’s candidacy also attracted criticism from Veronika Vrecionová, a Czech MEP from the ruling ODS party (ECR). “Her strong opposition to nuclear energy is unacceptable for the Czech Republic and several other member states,” she stated, reflecting the wider scepticism among Czech politicians. “If she is nominated, I expect very difficult hearings,” noted another Czech ODS MEP and member of the European Parliament’s environment committee, Alexandr Vondra.

Markéta Gregorová who represents a more environmentally progressive outlook in Czech politics, has also voiced concerns. While acknowledging that Ribera’s nomination makes logic given her experience, Gregorová is suspicious of Ribera’s past actions in Spain, where she led steps to shut down nuclear reactors. Gregorová also stated that her potential support for the candidate will rely on Ribera’s performance during the hearings.

Czech MEP Luděk Niedermayer has chosen to withhold judgment until the full list of nominations and portfolios is concluded, stressing the necessity for a balanced approach in line with Ursula von der Leyen’s broader picture for the Commission.