Shaping Europe’s future: ALDA’s insights from the Union of European Federalists debate

ALDA recently participated in an interesting and important debate at the Press Club in Brussels (Belgium), hosted by the Union of European Federalists on April 25, 2024. This discussion was centred around the pressing topic of European treaty reform, drawing insights from guests, particularly relevant with the upcoming elections: the francophone Belgian heads of list for the EE24.

The panel had a diverse representation of European Parliament candidates and political parties, with Ms. Léa Charlet, speaking on behalf of the Écologistes, Mr. Arslan Jurion representing Volt, and Ms. Laura Hidalgo advocating for the Mouvement Réformateur. Under the interesting questioning of Mr. Domenico Rossetti from UEF Belgium and Deputy Head of Unit chez European Commission, these young candidates expressed their respective party visions on important issues shaping the contemporary European political landscape.

The Écologistes passionately championed their vision for a greener society, stressing the urgent need to accelerate ecological transition in response to climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Their platform emphasises the deployment of renewable energy sources and underscores the imperative of immediate action to mitigate escalating challenges. Solutions that they proposed include substantial investments in key sectors, promotion of renewable energy, ecosystem restoration, pollution mitigation, and fostering sustainable agriculture and healthy food systems.

In contrast, Volt adopts a pragmatic stance, refraining from outright dismissal of nuclear energy as a short-term energy source. They advocate for Europe to assert greater autonomy in defence affairs, seeking to diminish reliance on U.S. influence. Similarly, the Mouvement Réformateur calls for increased military expenditures to bolster Europe’s self-defence capabilities. Ms. Laura Hidalgo emphasised the importance of streamlining administrative processes to enable swift and decisive action, essential for addressing climate imperatives and fostering an efficient and inclusive economy. Simplifying administrative burdens is seen as pivotal for empowering private actors and individuals in the national economy.

Unified in their belief in the necessity of reforms, all three parties underscored the importance of ensuring smooth enlargement while safeguarding environmental agendas, territorial integrity, independence, justice, and efficiency

Central to their proposals is the call for a reform of European treaties, envisioned to enhance the EU’s efficiency and democratic functioning by abolishing the unanimity requirement. This, they argue, would streamline the EU’s decision-making processes, fortify its commitment to the rule of law, and bolster protection of fundamental rights.

ALDA extends its congratulations and support to its colleagues and fellow members of the EESC Civil Society Liaison Group within the Union of European Federalists.