External advisers deliver key report on EU Commission restructuring

Key points

• A high-level group led by Catherine Day delivered a report with nine recommendations to modernize the European Commission.
• The report proposes shifting away from siloed departments toward greater cross-departmental collaboration.
• Major restructuring decisions are not yet finalized, as the report will inform a wider review by Commissioner Piotr Serafin.
• Serafin is tasked with presenting final recommendations to von der Leyen by the end of 2026.
• Structural reforms are likely tied to negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028-2034.

Background

This development follows earlier internal workstreams and a July report by Commission officials, which aimed to kick-start a broader discussion on institutional reform. The current review is part of a broader effort to streamline the Commission's bureaucracy and make it a more attractive employer. It occurs amidst other significant EU political shifts, including debates over the EU-Canada 'associate member' pact and the potential impact of Spain's snap election on the European Parliament's center-left balance, which supports von der Leyen.

Why it matters

The outcome of this review could lead to the most significant administrative shake-up of the European Commission in two decades, potentially redrawing the responsibilities of powerful directorates-general that manage billions of euros in EU spending. This restructuring could impact key policy areas such as cohesion, agriculture, and research, and is expected to be closely linked to future EU budget negotiations.

What to watch

Commissioner Piotr Serafin will integrate the external report with internal feedback to present final recommendations to von der Leyen by the end of 2026. Major structural changes are unlikely to be decided before the conclusion of the Multiannual Financial Framework negotiations for the 2028-2034 period.