Rosenkranz: The European Union Must Address Challenges Beyond National Capacity

During a recent conference held in Budapest, National Council President Walter Rosenkranz emphasized the urgency for the European Union (EU) to tackle significant issues that individual member states cannot resolve independently. Speaking at the two-day gathering of parliamentary leaders from EU member countries and the European Parliament, Rosenkranz underscored the necessity for the EU to provide tangible benefits when addressing matters at the European level.

Rosenkranz articulated the importance of the subsidiarity principle, which advocates for decisions to be made as closely as possible to the citizen level, indicating that collaboration on EU matters should yield visible and meaningful results for citizens.

In addition to his speech, Rosenkranz engaged in discussions with his counterparts from Italy, Estonia, and the Netherlands, focusing on bilateral relations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He reiterated that the EU should not pursue integration merely for its own sake but must instead prioritize practical cooperation that demonstrates clear advantages to its citizens.

The National Council President pointed out the varying opinions regarding the extent to which national powers should be transferred to the EU. He argued that while some challenges require a collective approach, it is also crucial to identify issues better managed at the national level. In this regard, he emphasized the role of national parliaments in assessing the necessity and effectiveness of new legislative proposals.

Bundesrat President Andrea Eder-Gitschthaler echoed these sentiments, stressing that Europe stands as a vital community of values and a force for shaping the future. She called for a constructive dialogue aimed at advancing the union while reducing bureaucratic complexities. Eder-Gitschthaler highlighted the importance of regional collaboration, noting that Salzburg actively participates in the Committee of the Regions, while also underscoring Austria's commitment to supporting its neighbors, particularly in the context of the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

As discussions continue regarding the future structure and efficacy of the EU, both leaders advocate for a careful re-evaluation of how best to achieve a unified Europe that is responsive to the diverse needs of its member states and their citizens.