“The EU can expect more from Germany!”

Michael Roth MP, Minister of State in the Foreign Office, chose to make a clear point on Europe day. Reforming the EU needs more solidarity, he stressed, while discussing the 5 scenarios sketched in the White Paper on the Future of Europe with 170 representatives of EM Germany’s member organisations.

Roth drew a conclusion from the French presidential elections that some politicians in Germany won’t like: “I was surprised to see how harsh the resentment is against Germany’s playing teacher to the rest of Europe – from the far right to the far left”, he stated, asking for more flexibility, more investment in infrastructure – and more help for weaker member states.

Thomas Fischer from German trade union DGB joined Roth on the panel and shared some of his views, especially those referring to the social pillar. A lively discussion with many of the guests followed.

Read the full text in German here.