At a press conference on Friday 11 September, German and Austrian representatives from a number of the political groups in the European Parliament discussed their expectations for the future of the EU and detailed the points they would like to see addressed in the first State of the Union address to be given by Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (see separate news item).
The speakers were fairly unanimous. “I find it fascinating that although we all come from different groups, we still have the same expectations”, said Ska Keller (Greens/EFA, Germany).
Rule of law. In particular, they all stressed at length the increased importance that should be given to the Rule of law in the EU. Katarina Barley (S&D, Germany) - who believes that the EU, without respect for the Rule of law, will not be able to “remain standing for much longer” - expects the Commission to make commitments in this regard, especially in the negotiations on the multiannual financial framework.
Ms Barley thus stressed the need for the Commission to not depart from its initial position and to impose a link between the disbursement of EU funds and respect for the Rule of law.
Migration. Described by Katarina Barley as “a disgrace to Europe”, the EU’s handling of the migration crisis has also provoked a strong reaction from MEPs. The latter, referring in particular to the fire at the Moria camp (see EUROPE 12557/12), hammered home that they are counting on the Commission to implement solutions.
“I now expect Mrs von der Leyen to take very concrete steps to break the current deadlock”, said Nicola Beer (Renew Europe, Germany).
Climate. Expectations are also high for Ursula von der Leyen’s environmental commitments, which Martin Schirdewan (GUE/NGL, Germany) hopes will “go beyond the politics of announcement”.
Ska Keller, for her part, pleaded that European funds no longer be used for projects that would harm the environment.
On the question of the budget, the cuts in research and education agreed by the European Council last July have also caused a strong reaction.
Stakeholders expressed disappointment and, more importantly, concern. They called on the Commission to invest more in these areas, which are crucial for the future of the EU, especially for its technological sovereignty.
Citizens. Finally, several MEPs stressed the need for the EU to reconnect with its citizens. Nicola Beer insisted on the urgency of finding a new date to launch the conference on the future of Europe, and Martin Schirdewan called on the President to propose more “social” responses to the current crisis. For example, by making proposals on the European minimum wage or on the framework for the relationship between platforms and their employees.
Othmar Karas (EPP, Austria) said the speech should be “the starting point for a pact with the citizens of Europe”. (Original version in French by Agathe Cherki)