„We have achieved a lot on European policy“
Mr. Hofreiter, in 2021, the former government coalition set ambitious goals for the further development of the EU. The European policy section in the coalition agreement was considered very progressive by many. In the end, however, very few of the projects mentioned there were actually tackled. How would you assess the European policy record of this legislative period?
After the start of Russia’s war against Ukraine, we immediately adopted sanctions against Russia together with our European partners, despite strong resistance from Orbán, and provided comprehensive support to Ukraine. Accession negotiations were opened with Ukraine and Moldova last year. Significant progress was made in negotiations with Albania. Montenegro became the first candidate country to meet interim rule-of-law targets. Despite all the challenges, we have achieved a great deal in European policy in recent years.
Over the past few years, the German government has made headlines in Brussels mainly for the notorious „German Vote“ – abstentions due to internal disagreements in Berlin – or for suddenly questioning already agreed-upon European compromises, such as the combustion engine phase-out. Shouldn't Germany, as the EU's largest member state, assume much stronger leadership responsibility?
In recent years, my colleagues from our European partner countries have made it very clear to me how much they look to Germany’s position. That does not mean they always share our views, but our stance serves as a benchmark for them. I have repeatedly tried to bring this point into the German debate: Germany must take a clear stance and live up to its leadership responsibility in Europe.
Critics argue that Germany has lost influence in Brussels due to the former coalition’s EU policy. As chairman of the Bundestag’s European Affairs Committee, you have many discussions in Brussels. Can you confirm this impression?
No, my discussion partners still look to Germany – currently with great concern about what will happen after the election. If the next chancellor takes their responsibilities in Europe seriously and closely coordinates with our partners – especially in Paris and Warsaw – we will be able to maintain our influence. But there is a risk that a Chancellor Merz would not sufficiently focus on the European level.
In the election campaign, the EU was not a major topic – except when it came to migration policy and reducing bureaucracy. Why is that?
Decision-making in Brussels is very complex. Many different actors are involved and competing for influence, which makes it difficult for citizens to fully grasp. Nevertheless, EU decisions have a major impact on our daily lives: They ensure consumer protection, fairer wages, and greater security. We need to emphasise this more frequently.
Which European policy initiatives should be at the top of the next German government’s agenda?
Given Putin’s brutal war of aggression in Ukraine, China’s increasingly aggressive stance in international politics, and Trump’s second term, Europe needs to become much more self-reliant. It must take greater responsibility for its own security, and launch an investment offensive to build a strong economy that can withstand trade conflicts and secure prosperity for its citizens.
