Plakolm Advocates for Retention of Unanimity in EU Foreign Policy

Claudia Plakolm, the Austrian Minister for Europe from the ÖVP party, has expressed her support for maintaining veto powers for individual member states at the Council level within the European Union (EU). She emphasized that the principle of unanimity should not be abandoned in critical areas such as Common Foreign and Security Policy, EU finances, and the admission of new EU members.

During a recent interview, Plakolm highlighted the ongoing discussions regarding the EU's expansion to include six Western Balkan countries--Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia--which have been under consideration for over two decades. She noted the emergence of a positive momentum regarding this expansion and advocated for a gradual integration process.

When questioned about the relatively low public support for the EU in Austria, despite the evident benefits of membership and the longstanding involvement of the ÖVP in government, Plakolm did not provide a specific answer. She acknowledged the need to bridge gaps in public perception.

Plakolm also addressed concerns regarding 'problematic candidates' among both EU member states and candidate countries, indicating her intention to engage in dialogue. She cited Hungary as an example, a country facing ongoing scrutiny for issues related to media freedom and the rule of law under Prime Minister Viktor Orban. As Hungary shares a border with Austria, she underscored the necessity of maintaining bilateral cooperation.

Plakolm pointed out that Hungary has historically delayed sanctions against Russia in relation to the Ukraine conflict and has threatened to use its veto power in such matters. She stressed the importance of including Hungary in discussions about extending these sanctions, given the unanimity principle in EU foreign policy.

Moreover, Plakolm called for the EU to focus on essential issues, citing the need to enhance Europe's global competitiveness, which she believes has diminished recently. She advocated for greater flexibility for member states in implementing EU regulations and criticized unnecessary bureaucratic burdens on small businesses, particularly in regard to the EU's nature restoration regulation.

On the EU's defense initiative, the ReArm Europe Plan/Readiness 2030, Plakolm characterized it as both an industrial program and a means to address Europe's reduced reliance on the United States for defense. She noted it also offers opportunities for the Austrian military to benefit from collective procurement within the EU.

In her capacity as Minister for Integration and Family Affairs, Plakolm expressed confidence in the constitutionality of the proposed ban on headscarves for girls under 14, indicating ongoing consultations with experts. She stated that it is crucial for young girls not to be hidden under headscarves and outlined two legislative paths for implementing this ban.

Plakolm also addressed the temporary halt on family reunification, asserting that this policy is vital for maintaining public safety and order, as well as addressing challenges in education, health, and the job market. She argued that further family reunification could hinder integration efforts and contribute to social challenges.

Additionally, as the Minister of Culture, she has promoted a strong sense of Christian identity in Austria, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage and fostering social cohesion. Plakolm recognized the necessity of tolerance but cautioned against misinterpretations of this value, acknowledging the challenges that often arise in relation to Islamic communities.

Concerning the recent Vienna municipal elections, Plakolm expressed disappointment regarding the outcome for the ÖVP but noted a restructuring of the local party leadership, involving experienced district leaders to guide future efforts. She reiterated the party's focus on security as a critical issue, reflecting her own concerns about rising crime rates in certain districts of Vienna.