Europe can achieve more!

Chemistry and Pharmaceuticals are campaigning for a strong EU ahead of the European elections, with a clear industrial policy agenda.

The European unification process: to date, an as yet unrivalled success story worldwide. What began as an economic partnership of convenience between a handful of states has largely developed into a strong community underpinned by enduring values. Many people in the EU enjoy a good life rooted in a sense of security and prosperity. However, Europe’s strong economic and political position in the world stands in jeopardy – be it through exposure to external developments, but increasingly due to its own shortcomings, such as national egoism and a pronounced tendency towards lethargy and micromanagement. If the EU does not wish to become sidelined, and perhaps even more – if it wishes to shine in a new array

of splendour – it is essential to adopt the right countermeasures now. The European elections in June will entail some effective opportunities for just such a realignment.

After the European elections: defending achievements

Some of the EU’s greatest achievements lie in its internal market and the fundamental freedoms it enjoys: the free movement of people, goods, services and capital. This unshakable foundation – supplemented by diversity and freedom of opinion – must be constantly defended. The German chemical and pharmaceutical industry – which supplies more than half of its exports to other EU countries – has always signalled a clear “yes” to Europe.

Isolation, nationalistic egotistical behaviour and narratives of yesterday that appeal to certain factions are not expedient in our increasingly interconnected world – neither for citizens and companies, nor for the EU’s partners. Only a strong and open community with a competitive and future-centric spirit of industry can help shape solutions aimed at the preservation of our natural resources, sustainable value creation and prosperity, and fostering social change. The EU, as a focal point for innovative future technologies – we must realise this goal.

Setting the industrial policy agenda

But how should we arrive there? What will help the economy? And the answer is: pragmatism, speed and less bureaucracy. Unfortunately, the opposite seems to apply here. In many respects, the EU has become too small-minded, overbearing and despondent in its manner. For the coming legislative period, the German chemical and pharmaceutical industry is, therefore, campaigning in favour of a new political style: The EU must lend more support, create incentives and leave plenty of room for manoeuvre, as well as ensure, generally speaking, an environment in which our industry can develop appropriately.

Dr. Markus Steilemann

VCI President

This article is part of the VCI policy brief "Europe can achieve more!" (January 2024).