More details over the future Chief Enforcement Officer were provided by Commissioner-designate Hogan, after its creation was announced by Ursula von der Leyen in her agenda for Europe. The Chief Enforcement Officer will hold the position of Deputy Director General in DG Trade, will be politically accountable and be given enough resources to have “teeth”. This role will be entirely focused on implementation issues in trade agreements and will be expected to involve engagement with a large range of stakeholders, including those outside the trade circle. Taking into account Members of European Parliament’s numerous complaints over the implementation of trade and sustainable development chapters in trade agreements, it seems highly probable this will become a focus point for the enforcement officer. The position is expected to be created as soon as possible starting from 2020.
Stefan Scheuer