A poll for Financial Times shows that a majority of the people asked would like to see a high-profile person as EU-president.
It is an interesting poll, but it is not asking the right questions. The coming year’s debate cannot only be about what kind of candidates we want. Don’t we need to know what kind of position they are candidates for first?
The result gives strong support for a more clear EU-leadership. However would it not be more important to give the role in it self legitimacy and responsibilities rather than just appointing an influential person? And, do we really want a strong and leader of the Council, appointed by the Heads of States and Governments in diplomatic negotiations rather than democratic debates? Finally, what are the chances that the council will ever agree on a top-figure?
Helena,
You are quite right: the post(s) need democratic legitimacy.
For concurring arguments you could look up my post ‘Fifth freedom? What about the basic ones?’ of 17 March 2008.