Prominent Opinions

"Facing a transformation of magnitude never seen before in the past in terms of speed and impact on its people, Europe has a duty to develop and defend its own way, a model balancing economic and social development. Only a United Europe will have the size and impact to matter in the world."

— Denis Terrien,
Chairman of the Supervisory board Grandir Group, Board member United Europe
Prominent Opinions

"At a time when populism is gaining in significance in many European countries and beyond, it is more important than ever to participate in the political process – our democracy thrives on it. My urgent appeal to you: Strengthen the reason, send a signal and go to the European elections!"

— Prof. Dr Dr Reinhard Hüttl,
CEO Helmholtz-Zentrum Potsdam
Prominent Opinions

"What is Germany without Europe? In times of increasing populism and conflicts all over the world, we need a strong, democratic Europe. A high turnout at the upcoming European election would be a strong signal for a united Europe. The world needs a strong Europe."

— Andreas Rudolph,
Chairman of the Board, GHD GesundHeits GmbH Germany
Prominent Opinions

"We can all appreciate the immense contributions of the EU concerning growth and prosperity across Europe. However, the real merit is that 500 M people live today in freedom, for whom the concept of war or conflict with each other would be unthinkable. It is imperative that we preserve this within a strong European Union."

— Dr. Michael Böhmer,
Partner, Ernst & Young GmbH
Prominent Opinions

"The European idea is fundamental for our democracy, history and values. And Europe is our only chance to maintain relevance in a world that is changing ever faster. Thus, we must continue to develop the European idea and concentrate on few major projects like defence, energy, mobility or aspects of digital."

— Dr. Leonhard Birnbaum,
Member of the Board, E.ON SE
Prominent Opinions

"We are better together - economically, culturally and in every other way. Better together with 500 million people."

— Baroness Jay of Paddington,
Member House of Lords, Board United Europe
Prominent Opinions

"Diversity and prosperity are the basis of a united, strong and livable Europe in which all people live in peace and satisfaction. Europe needs strong regions, strong cultures and strong economies. There lies the power of a strong Europe."

— Uwe Reuter,
Chairman VHV Holding AG
Prominent Opinions

"Europe has patiently succeeded at achieving peace and unprecedented prosperity. We have built a unique area of tolerance, free trade and diversity. Yet it’s construction remains fragile and in need for our constant care, attention and love."

— Guillaume Alvarez,
Senior Vice President EMEA, Steelcase
Prominent Opinions

"The European Elections will require a resounding plebiscite to compel national parties to take a stand on the European model they want and to ignite debates on this model on the political stage."

— Dr. Jorge Antos de Barras,
Honorary Consul and President of Chamber Commerce & Industry Portugal -Baltic’s

Competition Between EU Countries

Bild Wurster StefanThe “Open Method of Coordination” is a unique instrument to foster intensive competition between EU member states, writes United Europe member Dr. Stefan Wurster, a political scientist from Heidelberg University. OMC, as it is known, forces each country to identify and implement best practices solutions more quickly, contributing to a more innovative and competitive Europe.

In his essay for United Europe, Dr. Wurster adds a warning: to be effective, this particular form of benchmarking needs clearly set goals and continuous attention from the public. That’s the lesson to be learnt from the failure of the EU’s Lisbon strategy.

To read this essay in full length, please switch to German.

Dr. Stefan Wurster, Institut für Politische Wissenschaft Universität Heidelberg

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