Nordic Countries Call for Better Geographical Balance in EU Institutions

Nordic EU member states are pushing for fairer national representation within the European Union’s institutions, voicing concerns over a growing imbalance in staff composition.

“We hope for a Nordic renaissance in the staff of EU institutions.” With these words, Mikaela Kumlin Granit, Sweden’s Permanent Representative to the EU opened the Nordic Midsummer Seminar in Brussels on 10 June. The seminar focused on addressing the underrepresentation of certain nationalities, particularly from the Nordic region, among EU civil servants.
 

A widening gap in Nordic representation

Civil servants from across the EU bring with them diverse national perspectives, cultures, and expertise that are vital to legitimate and effective policymaking. However, the current geographical imbalance in EU staffing remains a concern.

The issue is especially pressing for Finland, where a large number of Finnish EU officials are set to retire in the coming years. At the same time, fewer young Finnish professionals are entering EU service—a trend that could further reduce Finland’s presence in EU institutions if not reversed.
 

Collaborative Solutions and Institutional Commitments

The seminar gathered officials and stakeholders to discuss practical approaches to improving geographical representation. Representatives from other organisations shared strategies they have used to tackle similar challenges, and EU institutions outlined their current and future efforts. 

EPSO Director Olivier Salles announced that a contract has been signed for a new testing platform. However, the AD5 generalist competition, originally scheduled for July, will be postponed.

Christian Roques, Deputy Director-General of the European Commission’s DG HR, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to better representation. “Adequate targets will be introduced,” he said, adding that there will be “more focus on candidate experience and outreach to attract applicants.”

Ellen Robson, Director-General of DG HR at the European Parliament, emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach. “Both easy and difficult measures are needed to correct imbalances. We will use both,” she stated.

The annual Midsummer Seminar was co-hosted by Permanent EU Representations of  Finland, Sweden, and Denmark.