Germany will take over the EU Council Presidency on 1st 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.
Speakers will assess 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.
This event is the first in a series of joint activities of the EPC and the 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.