The former Irish President expressed gratitude to her supporters, but politely affirmed that she would not stand for the Presidency. The new position of European Council President will be created by the Lisbon Treaty, pending ratification of the Treaty by the Czech Republic. While former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is seen as the front-runner, he has generated huge opposition from those who say his role in the Iraq war disqualifies him.

Robinson declined the nomination because of her current focus on climate change, with special attention paid to its impact on developing countries. Climate justice, she said, is an urgent and demanding topic, disallowing her the time to consider the top EU position.

Robinson has a mass following, the campaign for her candidacy being driven by civilians, rather than national politicians and advisors (as is more the case with Blair). The largest Facebook group advocating her candidacy for the post is just shy of 7000 members, a strong contrast to Blair, who seems to have more groups created against his prospective presidency than for it.

As No 10 Downing Street has apparently began lobbying for Blair’s candidacy, long-time Luxembourg premier Jean-Claude Juncker officially declared his interest in obtaining the position himself. Though he comes from one of the EU’s smallest member-states, he can certainly not be accused of coming from a Euro-skeptic state, as is the case with Blair. While the BeNeLux countries strongly disapprove of Blair’s candidacy, it is not yet clear if they will stand united behind Juncker. Rumour has it that Dutch Prime Minister Jan-Peter Balkenende has been subtly lobbying for the post as well.

With the European Council meeting this week, speculation will certainly heat up, though of course still dampened by the delay of Czech ratification.

Photo : www.flickr.com/ TPCOM