War in Ukraine, rising energy prices, climate protection, migration, economic tug-of-war: an overview of the biggest challenges for the European Union.
What does someone who has received the Nobel Peace Prize look like? Most people probably think more of Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, or the Dalai Lama — and less of a massive institution that critics often like to describe as a bureaucratic juggernaut. Nevertheless, in 2012, the European Union received the world’s most important award for peace efforts. Incidentally, before the war in Ukraine there were already arms supplies to third countries.
In addition to the peace project, the EU is also an economic union, a political union and a community of values. With all associated problems and errors. The times when the curvature of the cucumber was prescribed are long gone, other absurdities, such as the million-travelling circus of the EU Parliament between Brussels and Strasbourg, have remained.
Graphic: EU in numbers
The shirt is always closer to you than the skirt
Since Brexit, Britain’s departure has been a feat of strength for both sides, but in the EU at least the issue was settled surprisingly quickly and 27 interests remain to be reconciled. No wonder that the European mills grind slowly, because in all countries the motto applies: the shirt is closer to you than the skirt. In other words, national interests and squinting at national voters take priority.
Secret laws over the heads of the people
But Brussels is not a closed space where secret laws are passed over the heads of the population behind closed doors. The Member States of the Union always sit at the table and make their decisions. Although this is often presented differently in individual countries – good news is presented as national successes, while unpleasant decisions are quickly shifted to the “Brussels bureaucrats”. The fact is, however, that there is hardly any Austrian law without European origin or reference.
“Krone” expands its EU reporting
Because Europe affects us all, the “Krone” is now expanding its EU reporting, including on the spot in Brussels. This series marks the beginning of a closer look at the European Union, which is at a crossroads given the numerous crises of recent years, but also given the current tense situation. In the coming days you will read about the biggest challenges, from the energy crisis to climate protection and the ongoing migration problems, but also about the hopes and future prospects for Europe.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
