Just reading through the chapter on "Europe and the World" in the new German government coalition agreement. Hugely ambitious and potentially transformative for Europe. Here are a few highlights 1/n
Emphasis throughout on a more democratic EU, with greater decision capacity, and more sovereignty in the world: "A democratically stronger, more capable and strategically sovereign EU is the basis for peace, prosperity and freedom". 2/n
Wants a "constitutional convention" to "the further development of a federal European state", with a stronger European Parliament (with a right of initiative), and a uniform EP election law, with transnational lists and "lead candidates". 3/n
Wants the EU Council to be "more transparent", with Commission proposals publicly debated in a set time limit, and a further extension of QMV 4/n
Wants more EU "strategic sovereignty", with European independence in energy supply, health, raw materials, digital technology, and protection of European companies against "extraterritorial sanctions" 5/n
On the rule of law (vis. Poland and Hungary), the agreement calls on the Commission and the Council to be more robust in the application of the provisions of the treaty, and supports using fiscal threats to enforce judicial independence 6/n
Less clear on EMU and fiscal policy: wants to strengthen fiscal rules, encourage climate-friendly investment, allow for more EU budget flexibility, but (with a nod to FDP), the agreement also talks about fiscal discipline and maintaining low inflation 7/n
On Social Europe, wants to re-launch "co-determination" at the European level, and also use EU policies to reduce wage inequality between women and men (not sure how, though) 7/n
On Foreign and Security Policy, the Germany government wants the EU to be more sovereign and more effective, e.g. using majority voting in the Council, strengthening and reforming the European External Action Service, increased cooperation between national militaries etc. 8/n
And a load of other details. Too much to put on Twitter. It's a hugely ambitious and detailed programme. If this new government achieves even half of its goals, the EU will be very different 5 years from now. 9/9
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