A leading voice within the Munich Security Conference is issuing a stark warning about the fragility of the European Union, cautioning against a potential weakening or even dissolution of the bloc. Wolfgang Ischinger, the Conference’s Chairman, characterized the European project as “the greatest and most precious achievement of the 20th century” in an interview with T-Online, underlining a perceived existential threat.
Ischinger argues that Germany bears a critical responsibility to actively safeguard and revitalize the EU, both internally and in its external relations. He emphasizes a shift towards a “Europe of security” complementing the existing model of integration, a transition he describes as demanding a “massive effort” and insisting on a proactive German leadership role to drive it.
The former high-ranking diplomat’s concerns extend beyond internal cohesion, focusing sharply on the shifting geopolitical landscape. He expressed apprehension regarding Europe’s increasing inability to rely on the United States and NATO’s protective umbrella, leaving the continent “woefully unprepared” for potential military conflict. This necessitates a “massive consolidation” of the European defence market to ensure global competitiveness, something he believes requires overcoming the pervasive “European petty-mindedness.
Furthermore, Ischinger levied criticism at the EU’s security decision-making paralysis, attributing it directly to the requirement for unanimous consent. He advocates for a coalition of nations favouring majority rule to form a “core Europe” echoing a proposal initially put forward by Wolfgang Schäuble three decades prior. Ischinger sharply clarifies that a unified Europe dedicated to integration is not inevitably equipped for defense or security, suggesting a fundamental reimagining and bold, initiative-driven action is urgently needed. The call signals a growing debate within European political circles regarding the structure and efficiency of decision-making processes within the EU and the potential for a tiered system to accelerate security strategies.
