No representatives from Romania among the new appointments to the European External Action Service

Question for written answer E-003337/2025
to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
Rule 144
Victor Negrescu (S&D)

The recent appointment of 43 officials to the European External Action Service (EEAS) gives cause for concern since none of the officials came from Romania, the country with the sixth largest population in the European Union. It is not just a right, but a requirement, that Romania be properly represented in the EU's external action services so that it can contribute to a strong, balanced and credible common foreign policy.

This situation raises important issues as regards geographical balance, respect for the principle of representativeness and recognition of Member States' contributions to the Union's common foreign policy. Romania has proved it can train diplomats who are respected at the European level, and who have held strategic positions in EU delegations.

Given these circumstances:

• 1.What criteria were used to select the 43 EEAS officials and how was respect for the principle of geographical balance between Member States ensured?
• 2.Why was there no one from Romania in this round of appointments, despite their being diplomats with proven experience and careers in international affairs?
• 3.What steps will Commission and the EEAS take to remedy this situation and ensure that Romania and other under-represented Member States have equitable access to strategic posts like this in the future?

Submitted: 31.8.2025