As a new decade begins, the European Union is at a critical crossroads, facing critical decisions and difficult dilemmas. The mandate from European citizens for more Europe is proving difficult to implement. Unanimity on vital European decisions is still elusive. National interests continue to take priority over common interests and the European future.
The new European Budget for 2021-2027 is a characteristic example. The tough negotiations, now in their final stage, raise some pressing questions: Can we have more Europe with fewer financial resources? Will Europe grow, politically and economically? Or will it continue to function based on a balance-sheet mindset, fearful of its future?
Representing Greece in the EU General Affairs Council, I have observed different approaches from the various countries, but also shared concerns for a better European future. The approach to major European issues cannot always be decided by weighing profits against losses. In an era of ongoing variables, turmoil and uncertainty – daily challenges as well as great opportunities – Europe should not be divided on the major decisions.
What is more, the EU – as a global political and economic giant – should not be guided by apprehension when dealing with major challenges, such as the Cohesion Policy, Enlargement, Climate Change, Security, the Refugee/Migration issue.
The way the EU managed its relations with the United Kingdom should be taken as an opportunity for self-criticism regarding the strategic choices made in the past. After all, the cost of Brexit is estimated at €60 billion, shrinking the pie to be shared out in the budget.
At the same time, in this constricted European environment, Greece is setting its own example. After a ten-year economic crisis, Greek citizens voted for more Europe, ignoring the siren song of populism. Having now achieved political stability with the government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Greece remains committed to the European perspective of common alliances and values. European integration cannot be achieved without cohesion policies, which are intrinsic to and interwoven with the common European future.
One of the basic ingredients of European integration is fiscal solidarity, especially with member states like Greece, which saw its GDP fall by 25% during the crisis. In an era when nothing is as it was and, very likely, nothing will remain as it is now, Greece wants Cohesion Policy and CAP funding to be maintained at current levels. At the same time, it is forging ahead, pointing the way to new European policies in the sectors of innovation, competitiveness, migration, defence and, of course, climate change, pursuing funding from the Just Transition Fund.
With a plan to eliminate lignite from its energy mix by 2028, as announced by the Prime Minister, we want to set a positive example for Europe. The new Multiannual Financial Framework cannot be a mere balance sheet. It must quantify bold and visionary policies that benefit the citizens of the EU.
February 22, 2020