The ‘corona presidency’ - Testing German leadership in Europe
YouTube, 03.06.2020
Online event jointly organized by DGAP & EPC
Germany will take over the EU Council Presidency on 1 July in the middle of the most extraordinary public health crisis in modern times. The economic, social and political consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic pose a severe stress test to the EU's cohesion and capacity to act. And yet, expectations are high. Germany is under pressure to turn this 'corona presidency' into a success and lay the groundwork for the EU to emerge from the crisis stronger and more united.
During this online event, speakers assessed Germany's leadership and responsibility in this crucial period for the EU. What impact has the Covid-19 pandemic had on the priorities of the German EU Council Presidency? Can we expect a push for a meaningful response to the economic and social crisis? Will Germany be able to restore EU internal cohesion, uphold European values and the rule of law, while strengthening the EU's international role in a period of uncertainty and economic downturn.
Speakers were: Michael Roth, Minister of State for Europe, German Federal Foreign Office; Daniela Schwarzer, Director, German Council on Foreign Relations; and Janis Emmanouilidis, Director of Studies, European Policy Centre. The event was moderated by Jacki Davis.
This event was the first in a series of joint activities of the EPC and the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP) looking at the role of Germany and the future of the EU in the framework of the German Presidency of the Council, and aimed at connecting the EU policy debate in Berlin and Brussels.
Link to video on YouTube here
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