The decision came following the withdrawal of the original nominee, Tomaž Vesel, who stepped down last week after reportedly clashing with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on key issues.
Kos, 59, who has enjoyed a distinguished career as a diplomat and television journalist, received the unanimous backing of the Slovenian government, marking a notable moment in the country’s European journey.
Kos expressed her gratitude for the government’s confidence in her. “I feel a great responsibility towards both Slovenia and the EU,” she said, reaffirming her commitment to European ideals.
Slovenia is now awaiting confirmation of which portfolio Kos might secure. Speculation is rife that the country may be offered the enlargement portfolio, a significant role as the EU navigates complex relations with its neighbouring regions. “If that is indeed the case, we will be satisfied,” Arčon commented, though he refrained from speculating further.
Prime Minister Robert Golob, who took personal charge of the nomination process, has maintained regular contact with von der Leyen throughout, and there is cautious optimism in Ljubljana that Kos will be approved.
Kos’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Starting as a journalist, she later became the government’s chief spokesperson under Prime Minister Janez Drnovšek. Her diplomatic credentials were solidified through her ambassadorships in Germany and Switzerland, though she resigned from the latter post in 2020 after falling out with the centre-right government of Janez Janša. Since then, Kos has been based in Switzerland, working as a business coach.
Slovenia now waits with bated breath for the final nod from Brussels, hopeful that Kos’s extensive experience and European outlook will see her secure a prominent role in the next Commission.
