On June 11th Günther H. Oettinger invited our company members to a virtual debrief on the outcomes of the 2024 European Elections. Here is a summary of what we can expect from the upcoming legislature in Brussels.

URSULA VON DER LEYEN POISED FOR RE-ELECTION

The path to securing von der Leyen’s re-election appears increasingly clear, thanks to a cooperative stance from key political factions. The European People’s Party (EPP), Socialists and Democrats (S&D), and Liberals are expected to form a robust coalition, ensuring a solid majority in the European Parliament. Insider suggest that von der Leyen may also seek to bolster her support by courting the Greens and progressive elements within the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR). Notably, her collaboration with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni signals a pragmatic approach to consolidating her position.

Top Jobs and Strategic Appointments

In the high-stakes game of EU top jobs, the Socialists, as the second-largest bloc, are likely to leverage their position to secure influential roles. Antonio Costa, the former Prime Minister of Portugal, emerges as a prime candidate for the European Council presidency. Meanwhile, the Liberals are eyeing the High Representative for Foreign Affairs post, with the Prime Minister of Estonia, Kaja Kallas mentioned as a plausible nominee.

Roberta Metsola’s re-election as the President of the European Parliament is also on the table, potentially as part of a compromise that could see a socialist, such as Katharina Barley, succeed her mid-term. Additionally, Spain’s Nadia María Calviño Santamaría has been appointed for the European Investment Bank (EIB) presidency.

Policy Shifts and Future Mandates

The last five years under von der Leyen have been dominated by the Green Deal, a cornerstone of her administration and the one and only priority for the past legislature. However, the next term is expected to pivot towards a more balanced and pragmatic approach, focusing on economic growth and competitiveness. This recalibration responds to criticisms that the Green Deal’s ambitious targets have strained Europe’s industrial base.

Moving forward, the EU’s agenda is set to prioritize European energy policy integration, cybersecurity, support for Ukraine, migration, investment in research via Horizon Europe and reducing bureaucratic hurdles. The focus will be on pragmatic implementation rather than expanding legislative frameworks. President Emmanuel Macron of France has underscored the need for this paradigm shift, emphasizing implementation over new regulation.

Implementation Challenges 
Industry faces the monumental task of implementing a number of legislative pieces adopted in the last term, translating into specific acts in the hundreds in some cases. The business community is urged to engage with EU bodies through platforms like Business Europe and

European Associations to address legislative burdens and foster consistency. In 2025, the market will be checked and green policies further reviewed. We can expect some pragmatic changes in 2026.

Geopolitical Considerations

Europe’s geopolitical stance remains delicately poised between the US and China. The European Union is a transatlantic European Union, near the United States but asserting its independent global influence. A robust trade policy, exemplified by agreements like CETA or Mercosur, is crucial for maintaining Europe’s export strength and global partnerships. Europe needs a strong first row with a strong High Representative for foreign affairs and a strong European Council President.The post Review: United Europe Virtual Election Debrief with Günther H. Oettinger first appeared on United Europe.]]> https://www.united-europe.eu/2024/06/virtual-ceo-debrief-i-europe-after-the-elections-2024/ Tue, 11 Jun 2024 06:56:31 +0000 https://www.united-europe.eu/?p=24306 Günther H. Oettinger will offer insights and perspectives to deepen understanding about the implications of the election results and the way forward after the elections. He will examine a range…

Europe must strategically champion technologies that enhance environmental sustainability, efficiency, and economic viability. Education should prioritize the cultivation of AI and digital skills. Ensuring access to competitive energy sources is vital for maintaining industrial competitiveness, with a goal of achieving 80% self-sufficiency in energy production. Managing migration requires a responsible approach, akin to the Australian system, integrating skilled workers and culturally compatible individuals while respecting member states’ varying perspectives on migration. Principles mandating employability and language proficiency for migrants are crucial components of this approach.

In times of conflict and uncertainty, the need for peace and stability becomes ever more essential. While recent events have shown the importance of strengthening defense capacities, we must consider that true security lies in diplomacy and mutual understanding. We need to strengthen our capabilities for defense, and NATO serves as the foundation. In times of conflict and uncertainty, the need for peace and stability becomes ever more essential. As we work towards developing a cohesive defense strategy, we must also prioritize efforts to foster dialogue and seek peaceful solutions to conflicts. Together, through dialogue and cooperation, we can create a safer and more peaceful world for generations to come.

The Author:
Wolfgang Moyses, CEO Surteco Group SE

“EUROPE MUST GROW UP”

By profession, I am an engineer. That is why I view the election to the European Parliament on June 9 like a physical equatioon of forces: On one side, there are centrifugal forces pushing towards the edges or even beyond the edge into nothingness. On the other side, there is the gravity of the center, the grounding of the middle. But while forces in physics tend to balance each other and stabilize the overall system, the political equation of the European Union (EU) unfortunately looks different at the moment. A severe imbalance has arisen, and it threatens to increase – in the direction of radicalism, naivety, and absurdity.

The EU is in a structural and ideological crisis, which is also self-inflicted
No doubt:  European integration has proven to be “without alternative” for us Germans, especially in terms of security, political integration, and economic stability. It has brought us lasting peace, reconciliation, mutual understanding, and increased prosperity. But the EU is in a structural and ideological crisis. This crisis is largely self-made. In the 32nd year after the signing of the Maastricht Treaty, which founded the EU in 1992, institutional Europe feels lifeless. It seems to me that the EU has distanced itself far from the realities of its citizens through many of its public initiatives and statements in recent years. It does not reflect the realities of most Europeans when officials and politicians mainly focus on demanding political lip service like “climate protection” and “diversity”. It contradicts common sense to get lost legislatively in detailed supply chain regulations or diplomatically in “feminist foreign policy”. The rampant “subsiditis”  and the monetary redistribution between the north and south of the continent have not only led to an excess of lobbying. They have encouraged a reckless laxity in the budget discipline of many member states. Germany cannot completely exempt itself from this criticism. On top of all this, it is extremely counterproductive when EU parliamentarians and commission members, through selfish actions, project the image of a corrupt, overreaching superstate with a self-serving mentality. Meanwhile Europe’s most pressing problems – such as the migration crisis with more than a million asylum applications in 2023 alone, rising crime, and crumbling infrastructure – remain largely unresolved.

The European Parliament needs individuals of integrity who still associate ideals with their office
The result is disenchantment with politics in Brussels. Democratic Europe is in danger of losing its democrats. Extremists, populists, and the proponents of further “exits” à la Britain are filling the gap. Only the voters can lead the EU out of this crisis – with a realistic blend of pragmatism and renewed enthusiasm for the orginal European idea. Europe must and can find solutions. We only need the political will, expressed in parliamentary seats and in the competent staffing of the commission. Four starting points: First: In our voting decisions, we should choose moderate, honest individuals who do not see Europe as a welfare organisation and still associate ideals with their office. Second: Let’s bring into the parliament and the commission people who have experience in business management and an ear for the concerns of the market economy. Third: Let’s ensure that the unfortunate Europeanisation of national debts stops, so that the budget discipline of member states and Brussels can be strengthened again. Fourth: And, most urgently: Let’s remember that Europe needs an independent, credible security and defense policy. Security includes effective protection of the EU’s  external borders as well as coordinated military deterrence beyond NATO structures. The world order is changing rapidly, and we will no longer be comfortably exempt from self-responsibility for peace under the protection of American nuclear missiles.

“Moderation, focus on essentials, and steadfastness are attributes that Europe needs now.” Jürgen Großmann

An incapable-to-defend Europe, however, faces real threats. A newly designed European nuclear shield is seriously worth discussing. Si vis pacem para bellum – if you want peace, prepare for war, is a timeless truth. As the European Union, we are now in a phase of adolescent immaturity and confusion after a sheltered childhood. The unanimity requirement enables blackmail. It is high time that Europe grows up. Moderation, focus on essentials, and steadfastness are attributes of adulthood – these are the qualities of a stable physics of political power that I would like to describe. Let’s strengthen the gravity in this election! Let’s renew the power of the center!

The original article is published in German in the Handelsblatt. 

The Author:
Jürgen Großmann is the sole shareholder of the steel group Georgsmarienhütte, chairman of the board of trustees of the RAG-Stiftung, and former CEO of RWE AG.

This text is part of a series of contributions by German entrepreneurs for the European elections, published by Handelsblatt in cooperation with United Europe.

“THE PATH TO GREATER ENERGY AUTONOMY”

After the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and increasing tensions in the Middle East, the energy transition has become even more of a geopolitical instrument and a security issue than it already was. For us in Europe, this means that energy supply is a European issue, and it belongs at the top of the agenda.

The EU needs to expand and further digitalize its power grids
The energy crisis has shown that renewable energies and energy efficiency play an important role in increasing energy security because they gradually reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. For a rapid transition, cost-effective investments, bureaucracy reduction, and coordinated management are necessary. At the same time, the expansion and further digitalization of power grids are crucial to maintain the pace of renewable energy expansion in the European Union (EU). In the building sector, the pressure to act is particularly high, as fossil gas and oil still account for a large share of heating in residential buildings in Germany. Therefore, the expansion of the use of heat pumps, a highly efficient, electricity-based heating technology, is an important measure. A robust electricity market design is not only key to the success of the energy transition but also the foundation for supply security and affordable prices across the entire EU energy internal market. Therefore, the German and all national governments should quickly implement the new provisions introduced with the recent reform of the EU electricity market to create long-term planning security and unlock the necessary investments.

The EU must urgently seek new suppliers for LNG and hydrogen
At the same time, we need capacity mechanism to support the energy system. Through a capacity market, generation capacities get a price and become tradable. This allows the appropriate generation capacities get a price and become tradable. This allows the appropriate generation capacities with the suitable characteristics to be made available at the right place as needed. The same should apply to storage and controllable consumers who shift (part of) the load to set times. Therefore, we must address load management through a  renewed capacity market that particularly also offers incentives for storage and flexible consumption. Given the phase-out of nuclear energy and coal-fired power generation, new suppliers for liquefied natural gas (LNG) and increasingly for hydrogen must be found for the energy system in the short term. Our former dependence, especially on the Nord Stream pipelines, should serve as a warning when looking for non-Russian suppliers. We should not rely on single import routes and secure contractual flexibility to avoid “stranded assets” and the risks of dependence on one supplier. Autonomy must not be confused with autarky. Additionally, a secure supply of raw materials for the energy transition and the functioning of our internal market is becoming increasingly important. Therefore, it is essential to establish bilateral raw material partnerships with selected countries at the EU level that ensure sustainability minimum standards (ESG). In this regard, Europe must show much more pragmatism. It was a big mistake to let the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) fail over the “chlorine chicken”. Instead of learning from this, now even the EU-Canada Agreement (CETA) and the EU agreement with the Mercorsur states are at risk of failing on issues that are ultimately materially irrelevant for Europe.

Germany, in particular, must use its European political weight to prevent national solo efforts, so that a genuine “Team Europe” works together in the search for international strategic partnerships. – Leonhard Birnbaum

Finally, a note on the external dimension of the European Union. The EU and its member states should continue to invest globally in energy partnerships with third countries and pursue an even more systematic and coordinated approach. Germany, in particular, must use its European political weight to prevent national solo efforts so that a genuine “Team Europe” works together in the search for international strategic partnerships, also ini the immediate interest of Germany’s neighboring countries. Overall, it becomes clear that energy security is a complex and multifaceted system. Only through a coordinated and strategic approach at the European level, will we be able to effectively respond to the challenges of the energy transition.

The Author: Leonhard Birnbaum is CEO at EON.

This article is part of a series of contributions by German entrepreneurs for the European elections, published by Handelsblatt in cooperation with United Europe. 

The EU is essential for Europe’s economy and freedom. It creates a common market of over 445 million people, providing unprecedented access to trade, investment and innovation. By promoting the free movement of goods, services and capital, the EU enables businesses to realize their potential, open up new markets and generate growth. The third F.A.Z. European Economic Conference in the ESMT in Berlin provides a platform for representatives of European business, politics and academia to discuss the role of the EU in promoting economic growth, social cohesion and sustainable development. The conference promotes relevant debates and solutions for a strong Europe. We invite everyone to get actively involved and shape the future of Europe together.

The F.A.Z. European Economic Conference provides a platform for high-caliber representatives of European business, politics and science to discuss the role of the European Union in promoting economic growth, social cohesion and sustainable development. The conference promotes relevant debates on current challenges and solutions for a strong Europe – in the year of the 2024 European elections, this discourse is more important than ever!

Prof. Harald James, from the Princeton School of Public & International Affairs, will open the EEC with a keynote speech on “Europe is stronger than we think”. Other guests are, among others, Friedrich Merz, Chairman of the CDU Germany and Chairman of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group in the Bundestag; Wolfgang Schmidt, Federal Minister for Special Tasks and Head of the Federal Chancellery; Peter Adrian, President of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Dr Marie Jaroni, Head/SVP Decarbonisation, ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG,  and Günther H. Oettinger, President United Europe e.V.

Vindelici specialises in complex transformations and pursues a cross-industry approach. It is based on the firm conviction that freedom and the perception of genuine responsibility are indispensable components of successful transformations and entrepreneurial behaviour.

Vindelici aims to shape people into self-determined leaders who are deeply rooted in the values of responsibility, freedom and democracy. This basic understanding is not only a prerequisite for the success of transformations, but also characterises Vindelici’s view of the world and Europe.

COO Leonis Petschmann on membership of United Europe: “I am convinced that we can only solve global challenges together. The European idea plays a decisive role here, especially against in light of the history and diversity of the countries in Europe. We are jointly responsible for solving the major transformations of our time. But we can only do this as a strong and united Europe.”

Growing up in the Palatinate region, the US base in Ramstein was just around the corner for me. The presence of Americans and the security guarantee they provided for an increasingly interconnected Europe seemed natural. Travelling across Europe for chess tournaments as a teenager or simply shopping in neighboring France felt routine, instilling in me the belief that a united Europe fosters prosperity, freedom, and peace for everyone.

Admist the backdrop of this increasingly cohesive and borderless Europe, the Brexit came as a shock. As a staunch European, I cannot fathom turning my back on the European Union (EU) and what it represents. As a business leader, I fail to comprehend willingly relinquishing the benefits of a common economic area. The repercussions hit close to home for us at Deutsche Bahn: our plans for an IPO of our subsidiary DB Arriva in London were abruptly halted overnight, causing significant financial losses.

Since then, antidemocratic currents have been on the rise across Europe, with right-wing populist parties assuming governmental roles in many places. Further integration of Europe has stalled, and isolationist tendencies are on the uptick. The American NATO commitment and security guarantee for Europe are no longer assured with the possibility of a second term Donald Trump. The conviction that imperial wars are a thing of the past in Europe are proven false, deeply unsettling us all.

These developments underscore how fragile the foundation has become upon which our prosperity, freedom and peace stand. They are developments we cannot afford to accept. Inaction is not an option. Inaction means threatening the existence of the European idea. We must act!

Businesses, like individuals and governments, also bear responsibility. The days when Milton Friedman’s statement “the business of business is business” held sway are long gone. Companies are part of society and have a role in societal debates and issues. They must be judged by the contribution they make to society’s functioning.

Therefore, we unequivocally oppose all antidemocratic and anti-European attempts, intentions, and currents. Our employees, as well as all travelers who use our trains and routes across Germany and Europe daily, should know what we stand for: tolerance and democracy, freedom, and Europe. Because inaction is always a stance.

Economically, a divergence in Europe would be disastrous. The European single market is crucial, especially for Germany. Like many others, Deutsche Bahn is a European company: 60 percent of our freight trains cross at least one national border. We collaborate with other European railways to further tighten Europe’s integration on the rail.

“I want my children and future generations to retain the privilege of growing up and growing old in peace, freedom and prosperity.” Richard Lutz

I want my children and future generations to retain the privilege of growing up and growing old in peace, freedom and prosperity. This is impossible without a strong united Europe with clear values. This is impossible without open borders, without a European single market, without European economic, security and climate policies. Europe is a privilege we must protect! We have a choice. We should all exercise this right. That is why I’ll be casting my vote in the European elections in June.

The Author: Richard Lutz is the CEO of Deutsche Bahn AG (DB). 

This article is part of a series of contributions by German entrepreneurs for the European elections, published by Handelsblatt in cooperation with United Europe. 

DATE: Monday, 13th May
TIME: 16h00 – 17h30 CET
LOCATION: Berlin

Our panel of speakers include:
1. Wolfgang Dierker, General Manager at Microsoft
2. Semjon Rens, Public Policy Director at Meta
3. Deniz Özcan, General Manager at GMH Systems, GMH Gruppe
4. Marco-Alexander Breit Breit, Deputy Director General for AI at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action

The distinguished panel will explore the intricate relationship between AI, regulation, and geopolitics, with a particular focus on the implications of the EU AI Act on economic growth. From industry perspectives to governmental insights, this discussion promises to offer a comprehensive view of the current landscape and the road ahead.

Your presence and participation will greatly enrich this discussion.

Please RSVP by May 7th to confirm your attendance at events@united-europe.eu and secure your place at this event. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We look forward to welcoming you!

The team currently consists of five partners and a growing number of outstanding consultants. Many of BTO’s consultants/partners are also successful entrepreneurs. With this background, BTO supports medium-sized and large companies as well as family offices, investment funds and private equity firms.

Our seminar will commence with a presentation by Markus Oermann, Professor of Digital Ethics and Media Law at Technical University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt (THWS). Mr Oermann will shed light on AI powered disinformation as a threat to the integrity of elections.
To dive deeper into understanding opportunities based on AI, Harmen Zell, Public Policy Manager at Meta, will conduct an industry workshop titled “Opportunities for the European economy in applying AI”. A second perspective will be introduced by René Delbé, Climate Pact Lead at Microsoft, who will host a workshop on “Opportunities in Sustainable AI”. Subsequently, a policy workshop on “Digital Sovereignty: A robust Strategy for Europe” will be led by Professor Key Pousttchi, founder of the wi-mobile Institute for Digital Transformation, discussing strategies for Europe to maintain sovereignty in AI successfully.

The day will start at 9:00 AM and conclude at 5:30 PM with a Panel Discussion: “AI between regulation and geopolitical tensions – How the EU AI Act impacts economic growth” featuring Wolfgang Dierker, General Manager at Microsoft, Semjon Rens, Public Policy Director at Meta and Marco-Alexander Breit, Deputy Director General for Artificial Intelligence at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.

📧 To apply please send your CV to events@united-europe.eu. We are looking forward to receiving your application!

Over the past decade, the Munich Cyber Security Conference (MCSC) has been a pivotal platform fostering global dialogue on cyber threats. From groundbreaking keynotes to collaborative workshops, MCSC has navigated the evolving landscape of digital security. The MCSC (15 February to 16 February) reflects at this milestone event on the next era of cyber resilience. #MCSCAnniversary

Please consult the MCSC Website for references of past editions including the conference report 2023.

The timeframe for each working group is set at approximately one year, encompassing three meetings (in person and/or online).

Günther H. Oettinger, President of United Europe, will personally attend the final meeting of the working groups. As a result, the participants will work on expert papers to be published through our channels and submitted for consideration at the European Parliament.

The following working groups will be established:

1. Committee/Working Group on Competitiveness, Innovation & Energy Transition
2. Committee/Working Group on Digital Transformation, European Sovereignty, and Cybersecurity
     – The first meeting will take place on 19 February from 12.00 to 13.30 via Zoom.
3. Committee/Working Group on Brics+, Transatlantic Relations, and G7

We look forward to your participation in these working groups. If you are interested in participating or leading a group, have any questions or need further information, please email us at member@united-europe.eu.

The exact dates of the working groups will be announced in due course.

Recent electoral outcomes have been disheartening in Europe, marked by the rise of populist forces challenging the very foundation of the European Union. Two decades ago, Europe stood as the most innovative continent, but today it faces a stark reality: proficiency in regulation, yet a glaring deficit in its implementation.

Energy Security, Supply Chain Dependencies, Innovation, and Energy Prices have become paramount concerns for major European capitals, particularly Paris and Berlin. The question of dependency looms large, highlighting the critical role of nuclear and gas in sustaining energy-intensive industries.
Recommendation 1: As Germany and the rest of Europe navigate this landscape, a strategic and smart industrial policy becomes imperative: Europe is positioned ahead in innovative grid systems, and this presents a unique opportunity to lead in technology and software.

Furthermore, the Franco-German relationship emerged as a linchpin for European success. Surprisingly, the most consequential election for Europe is not the European Elections but the US election, as the potential return of Trump 2.0 looms large. In the face of those shifting dynamics in the US, Europe must act strategically.

Recommendation 2: While not all policies need Europeanization, energy policy demands a united front. Here, a stronger voice from the energy sector is crucial, to keep pushing policymakers towards a European approach. The shift toward renewable energy production in Europe’s peripheries must be a key focus for the next commission. By connecting regions with abundant resources in the south and the north with industrial hubs in the centre, Europe can optimize energy distribution, and supply chain dependency, promoting unity and resilience in the face of global challenges.

As Germany, France, and Brussels are unprepared, concerns about the ability to support neighbours like Ukraine in crisis are rising. The war in Ukraine transcended regional conflicts, shaping the rules of 21st-century Europe. Russia’s attempt to reintroduce imperial rules created a half-circle of instability around the European Union, affecting countries from the Sahel to the Baltics.

Recommendation 3: The potential re-election of Trump in 2024 adds complexity and emphasizes the need for a genuine European defence market and investment in military mobility. To address Europe’s strategic capability gaps, the establishment of an EU Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is needed and finally, the outdated antagonism between the European Union and NATO must be overcome.

Inspired by the recent United Europe CEO Lunch in Paris.