b'10 Most Influential EU Politicians CHRISTOPHE HANSEN, EUROPEAN COMMISSIONER FOR AGRICULTURE AND FOODA NEW ERA FOR EU POLICY. C hristopheHansenhasbeentiator and consensus builder. Observers appointed astheEuropeandescribe him as a "political animal" with an Commissioner for Agriculture andacute understanding of stakeholder dynam-Food, a role that places him at the centre ofics. His ability to engage with both industry European agricultural policy at a time ofrepresentatives and environmental organi-significant challenges. As a member of thezations will be crucial as he navigates the centre-right European Peoples Party (EPP)diverse and sometimes conflicting interests and a seasoned politician with a backgroundwithin the agricultural sector.in diplomacy and legislative affairs, HansenHis diplomatic skills will be tested in brings experience and a strategic approachaddressing concerns over EU regulations, to the sector. fair pricing structures, and the impact of sustainability measures on farmers. His BACKGROUND AND POLITICALtenure is also expected to focus on rein-TRAJECTORY forcing food security, an issue highlighted A native of Luxembourg, Hansen hasin von der Leyens recent policy initiatives. deep-rooted connections to agriculture,However, regulatory responsibilities related stemming from his upbringing in a farm- to food safety, pesticides, and genetically ing family. His cousin, Martine Hansen,modified crops will remain under the pur-currently serves as Luxembourgs MinisterChristophe Hansen, European Commissionerview of the European Commissioner for for Agriculture and Foodof Agriculture, reinforcing his ties to thePhoto: European Union 2025 - Source: EP -Health and Food Safety, Hungarys Olivr sector. At 42, Hansen is poised to becomePhotographer: Michel CHRISTEN Vrhelyi.one of the youngest members of the European Commission under Ursula vonPOLITICAL PROSPECTS AND der Leyens second term. FUTURE TRAJECTORYHis career has been characterized bygeopolitical tensions such as the RussianComing from a small EU Member State a steady ascent through both national andinvasion of Ukraine, and evolving envi- with strong ties to France and Germany, European institutions. Hansen served as anronmental policies. The agricultural sectorHansen enjoys a strategic advantage in nav-advisor to Astrid Lulling, Luxembourgsis navigating a complex landscape thatigating the political landscape of Brussels. first female Member of the Europeanincludes food security concerns, climateHis appointment has been met with cau-Parliament (MEP), focusing on agri- adaptation, and the demands of sustainabletious optimism, with supporters citing his cultural, environmental, and economicfarming practices. deep knowledge of agricultural policy and matters. His expertise in trade and environ- TheDirectorate-Generalforhis ability to bridge different viewpoints. mental policy was further honed throughAgriculture and Rural DevelopmentHowever, given the complexities of EU diplomatic postings in Luxembourgs mis- (DG AGRI), which Hansen will oversee,agricultural policy, his success will depend sions to the EU and Belgium. In 2018, hewas somewhat marginalized in von deron his capacity to assert influence within was elected to the European Parliament,Leyens first term. However, under thethe Commission and maintain support where he actively participated in key legis- new strategic farming dialogue initiatedfrom various stakeholders.lative initiatives such as the EUs deforesta- by the Commission President, Hansen isWith agriculture often seen as a politi-tion regulations, the Common Agriculturalexpected to play a pivotal role in shapingcally sensitive portfolio, some analysts view Policy (CAP), and the Drinking Wateran agricultural policy that balances eco- Hansens appointment as a potential step-Directive. Most recently, he served onnomic viability with environmental sus- ping stone to higher office within the EU. Luxembourgs national agriculture com- tainability. His primary challenge will beHis tenure will undoubtedly shape both his mittee. to ensure that agricultural policy extendspolitical career and the future of European beyond the structural funding of CAP toagricultural policy.CHALLENGES ANDencompass trade, nutrition, and climate-re- As he takes on this significant role, RESPONSIBILITIES lated dimensions. Hansen faces the formidable task of balanc-Hansen assumes his new role at a time ofing economic, environmental, and political growing discontent among European farm- A DIPLOMATIC APPROACH TO demands to ensure a resilient and sustain-ers, who have faced economic pressuresAGRICULTURAL POLICY able agricultural sector in the European exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic,Hansen is widely regarded as a skilled nego- Union. 14ISEED WORLD EUROPEISEEDWORLD.COM/EUROPE | MAY 2025'