The European Commission is considering restructuring the European Union’s diplomatic service by integrating parts of the European External Action Service (EEAS) into the bloc’s executive branch. This initiative, driven primarily by France and Germany, aims to overhaul the EU’s foreign policy framework by the end of the year.
Officials familiar with the discussions say the plan involves examining which functions of the EEAS could be absorbed by various Commission departments, representing a partial reversal of a major institutional reform implemented nearly two decades ago. The EEAS, currently led by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, has faced criticism from member states over its coordination capabilities amid complex crises including the wars in Ukraine and Iran, and shifting global power dynamics.
The restructuring seeks to align EU diplomatic efforts more closely with the Commission’s existing authority over areas such as trade, development aid, digital regulation, and technology policy. Another motivation behind the proposals is to reduce costs as member countries push for budgetary restraint during negotiations for the EU’s next long-term financial plan covering 2028 to 2034.
Sources indicate that the EEAS would not be completely merged into the Commission. Instead, its responsibilities would be divided among various departments in an effort to improve operational efficiency and coherence in the EU’s external action. Advocates for the reform argue that channeling much of the estimated €11 billion annual EEAS budget into the Commission will cut duplication, create a more unified foreign policy stance, and help meet financial savings demanded by national capitals.
Discussions on the general framework for transferring powers are expected to continue, with ambitions to reach an agreement by December as part of the broader EU budget deal. A summit scheduled for next month, involving national leaders, is expected to provide a platform to advance these reform ideas, with significant backing from France and Germany—both the bloc’s largest economies and key diplomatic actors.
Under the envisioned model, Kaja Kallas would receive an enhanced leadership role, including greater oversight over the expanded external affairs portfolio within the Commission. Meanwhile, a smaller, residual EEAS structure would remain independent from the executive branch, retaining direct management of EU peacekeeping operations and military training initiatives.
As this process is in an early stage, proposals remain subject to revision. Brussels officials continue to analyze detailed options before finalizing any significant institutional changes in the EU’s foreign policy architecture.