Bjoern Seibert: The Invisible Master of Brussels Who Rules the European Union
Think you know who really pulls the strings in the European Union? Think again! Hidden away from the public eye, at the very heart of power, is Bjoern Seibert – the man who has become the true shadow of Brussels and the most powerful European official.
Who is Bjoern Seibert?
Seibert is the chief of staff to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and nothing in the EU moves without his signature. His power is so immense that he is known as the man who runs the Commission by his rules – his way or no way.
Power in the shadows
Rarely seen in public, Seibert has become an indispensable figure in European politics. He finalizes political compromises, key personnel decisions, and lucrative procurements like vaccine deals during the pandemic. Experts call him the most powerful European official, and insiders say no one understands the EU’s workings better than him.
Rise and working style
Seibert’s rise began in the German Ministry of Defence, where Ursula von der Leyen spotted him as a capable young sociologist. When she became Commission President, she brought him to Brussels. Today, no major decision passes without his approval.
However, his working style is not without criticism. Some Commission staff say he slows processes and demoralizes officials. His “too German” and conservative approach raises concerns, with former Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier warning of an authoritarian turn.
The sneaker-wearing shadow
Brussels veterans describe him as a “silent assassin” – a man who always wears sneakers and carries an important dossier but rarely appears publicly. Married and father of two, his power is so vast that some already consider him almost a vice-president of the Commission.
The future of his power
His strength has so far been backed by close ties to the Joe Biden administration, but Donald Trump’s return to the White House changes the dynamics. European capitals increasingly ask – how long will his authority last?
Why does this matter?
While politicians and media focus on visible leaders, real power in the EU lies with people like Seibert. Centralizing power in his hands could be dangerous for democracy and transparency in the EU. Isn’t it time to ask who really rules Europe?
If you think this is just another story about shadowy power brokers, think again. Bjoern Seibert proves real power doesn’t have to be on the front pages – it’s where no one looks. So, what do you think about this concentration of power? Drop a comment, maybe you know something we don’t!
