Germany’s role in the EU and Swedish-German relations Berlin in a wider Perspective – Challenges, trends and Opportunities Visit of Mälradalsrådet to Berlin 31. January 2018

Current callenges for the EU Brexit Migration Future of the Eurozone Security European values and democracy and the EU‘s legitimacy in crisis Climate Change Digitalisation

Germany and the EU Germany is deeply rooted in European integration processes. European integration as way to reintegrate Germany in the international and European community after WW II and to reconcile France with Germany. The tandem Germany-France as a driving force throughout most of the EU‘s history (“engine”). Germany’s voice in the EU growing more important after reunification (largest member state). Germany as a reluctant hegemon.

Germany and the EU Germany sets the tone in many EU developments in particular the recent economic crisis management. At times in a way not everyone is happy with. At times acussed of acting alone without involving sufficiently the partners (migration). Positive or negative leadership? Indifferent towards the newest EU-reform proposals.

Domestic developments with implications for the EU Boosting economy Challenges for the political system and society: polarization, increasing gap between the rich and poor Rise of a rightwing populist party Difficulties to form a government since the elections in 9/2017  hint of an unknown political instability creating a certain unrest domestically and abroad Difficult situation for EU partners in a period in which important steps for the future of Europe have to be taken, they want to know Germany’s stance.

Swedish-German Relations Small(er) likeminded EU members have become more important for Germany, even more in the Brexit context  constant need to involve them. Sweden is as close partner of Germany both within the EU as well as bilaterally. Germany most important trading partner for Sweden. In economic, political and cultural respect both countries are close, while taking into account also the differences (in regard to European integration, Eurozone etc.). In the Brexit context, the relations, political and economic, could become even stronger.

Areas of German-Swedish cooperation Economy, Industry  German-Swedish Innovation Partnership, bringing together governments, business and institutions: mobility; digitalization; strengthening eHealth; improving test facilities for industrial development. Migration, EU asylum and migration policies, Refugee/migrant integration Social affairs Climate/Environment/Energy

Conclusions and prospects Potential for more contacts and cooperation on various levels, also regional and local. Use the potential more. Be realistic about the commonalities and the differences and the scope of cooperation.