As Charles Michel’s tenure as President of the European Council draws to a close, the former Belgian Prime Minister shared reflections on his time in office and his hopes for the European Union’s future.
In a recent interview with the European Newsroom, Michel spoke on the need for the EU to embrace innovation, assert greater influence on the global stage, and accelerate enlargement to secure its place in a rapidly changing world.
Avoiding the ‘Museum of the World’ Label
Reflecting on the EU’s potential role on the global stage, Michel emphasises the urgency of keeping the bloc competitive and dynamic. “We have to do everything not to become the museum of the world,” he said, stressing the necessity of robust investments in technological development and research.
Michel pointed to the EU’s success in promoting economic growth and social cohesion as proof of what the Union can achieve when united. However, he warned that without increased ambition and adaptability, the EU risks being left behind.
Michel advocates a more powerful, sovereign Europe capable of influencing global policies. Economic strength and reinforced defence capabilities are central to this vision, with Michel identifying them as top priorities for the EU to retain its relevance and autonomy.
Migration, another significant challenge, is also critical in his view, requiring a collective approach from member states.
Retaining Public Support Amidst Crises
For Michel, keeping the support of EU citizens is crucial in addressing contemporary challenges, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and the issue of EU enlargement. “We need to explain what we do, and why we are acting that way. We need to explain why we are supporting Ukraine, (…) why we should speed up the efforts to include new member states,” he explained, underlining the importance of transparency in EU policies.
Michel stressed the importance of reinforcing public trust, particularly as the EU navigates complex geopolitical issues. He noted the critical role of effective communication, stating that it is vital for EU leaders to clarify their decisions to citizens, thus securing their engagement and support for future EU initiatives.
Supporting Ukraine for a Stronger Europe
The European Council President has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine, particularly in light of Russian aggression. “Let’s make Ukraine stronger, because that makes us stronger as well,” he asserted. Michel emphasised the EU’s commitment to providing both military and political support to Kyiv, backing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s peace plan, which he believes should be rooted in the founding principles of the United Nations.
As the EU considers its military strategy, Michel expressed concern about reliance on the United States for defence equipment. Recent data shows that 80% of military equipment procured by the EU for Ukraine came from the U.S. While Michel clarified that the EU would continue transatlantic cooperation, he advocated bolstering Europe’s defence industry to reduce dependency on external suppliers.
A Call for EU Enlargement and Strategic Reforms
Another major element of Michel’s vision is the expansion of the EU to include candidate countries from the Western Balkans and Eastern Europe. “It’s time to enlarge the European Union’s project,” he stated, describing enlargement as a strategic imperative for securing stability and prosperity in Europe. Michel noted that recent geopolitical events, including the war in Ukraine, highlight the urgency of this expansion.
He emphasised the need for the EU to undertake internal reforms in preparation for future enlargement, ensuring the bloc remains efficient with a greater number of members. This includes adapting financial frameworks and decision-making processes. “It is absurd for the EU not to speed up,” Michel remarked, warning that delaying enlargement leaves room for other global powers to exploit the EU’s indecision.
The EU’s goal of integrating new members by 2030, Michel believes, will require a careful balance between reforms within the bloc and support for progress in candidate countries.
Migration: Legal Pathways and Enhanced Control
On migration, Michel observed that there is greater unity among EU member states than there was during the height of the migration crisis in 2016. He reflected on how trust between EU leaders was fractured back then, resulting in a lengthy rebuilding process. “It was total chaos, and it took several years to restore trust,” he stated.
Michel welcomed the recent adoption of an EU migration and asylum law, which he believes provides a more structured approach to migration policy. He noted that while not all member states agree entirely with the law, it represents a significant step forward. Michel called for a balanced approach, advocating both stronger controls against illegal migration and opportunities for legal migration.
“If we [the EU heads of state and government] (…) are not in a position to manage this political challenge, why should people trust us with the other challenges?” he queried, highlighting the connection between effective migration policy and broader public confidence in EU governance.
Building Autonomy Beyond Global Superpowers
Michel also addressed the EU’s future relationship with the United States in light of the upcoming U.S. presidential election. He acknowledged that while the policies of the two candidates, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, may vary, the EU must focus on building its own strength rather than relying on American foreign policy.
“We shouldn’t think about being afraid because we don’t know who will be the next president of the United States,” Michel remarked. He emphasised the need for the EU to become self-reliant, stating, “I don’t want that my children will depend on who will be the next president of the United States, who will be the president of China, of Russia.”
Michel’s desire for a stronger, independent Europe encapsulates his belief in a future where European countries determine their own fate. He sees this approach as essential not only for the current generation but also for future ones, allowing Europeans to decide their trajectory.
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