Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker has warned that Europe risks falling behind in global competition due to a perceived complacency fostered by widespread prosperity. In an interview, Stocker expressed concern that the European Union has become too comfortable, hindering its drive for performance and innovation.
“Europe is lulled into a sense of comfort by its own prosperity” he stated, suggesting a need to reinvigorate the promise of opportunity and ensure that hard work is adequately rewarded and economically benefits individuals. He indicated a desire to foster a system where success is not only attainable but also reflected in tangible gains for those who strive for it.
Addressing the issue of migration, Stocker affirmed Austria’s support for strengthened border controls implemented by Germany, including the recent policy of turning away migrants at its borders. He emphasized a strong working relationship with the German government, both at the ministerial and head-of-state levels, which facilitates a pragmatic approach to border management. Austria has been consistently conducting border controls since 2015, in coordination with Germany and several other Schengen area states.
The Austrian Chancellor also revealed support for a push, spearheaded by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, for a reinterpretation of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). This initiative, which seeks to facilitate the deportation of convicted asylum seekers to countries of origin or third nations, has reportedly gained traction in Berlin. Stocker stated he believes the German government is aligning with this position.
He expressed optimism regarding the current dynamic in Berlin, praising Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s willingness to take on responsibility. “He has already shown in his chancellorship that he wants to take responsibility and for me, he has shown that he can” Stocker said. He views a stronger role for Germany as a valuable asset for the future of the European project.
