The European Union is considering a new intelligence unit directly under Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. This move aims to enhance national intelligence coordination and strengthen the bloc’s global geopolitical standing.
The Financial Times first reported the proposal on November 11. EU spokespeople later confirmed it. This initiative would centralize intelligence efforts and foster more cohesive foreign policy positions. However, it immediately raises questions about national sovereignty and authority within the 27-member bloc. For example, the EU has previously discussed banning Huawei telecom equipment, highlighting ongoing national security debates.
The proposed unit would streamline intelligence data from national services and existing EU mechanisms. This improved flow would equip Brussels with comprehensive insights, enabling the EU to project a unified international presence. An EU spokesperson described the plans as “very embryonic,” telling the German press agency DPA and the Financial Times that the unit would likely consist of a small contingent of experts seconded from national agencies. The EU has not announced a specific timeline for its establishment.
The proposal faces considerable scrutiny. Reports indicate the EU has not formally coordinated the plan with all 27 member states. This lack of coordination is expected to ignite intense debate over national authorities and sovereignty, given the long-standing national control over intelligence matters.
Officials within the EU’s existing intelligence unit, part of its External Action Service, also oppose the plan. They voiced concerns that the new unit, if established directly under von der Leyen, could duplicate efforts and create redundancy.
The EU seeks greater strategic autonomy in a complex global landscape. The proposed intelligence unit reflects this aspiration but must reconcile with member state interests and existing institutional structures.