- The European Union advocates for a holistic strategy in the battle against corruption.
East Germany's Commissioner, Carsten Schneider, notices apprehension among people, despite a prosperous economic environment. He shared this during an interview with the "Lausitzer Rundschau", stating, "Eastern Germany is reaping benefits from substantial business investments, growth in renewable energy, the establishment of more federal departments, and a decrease in jobless rates." However, people are worried about losing their recent gains. Schneider further expressed, "Things are better than they seem."
He acknowledged the legitimacy of the worries related to the future. "The times are unpredictable. The Corona pandemic has also contributed to this," the Commissioner clarified. Populist parties like the AfD and the BSW are capitalizing on these fears, propagating the notion of potential losses.**
Similarly, Brandenburg's President, Dietmar Woidke (SPD), senses similar apprehensions amongst the public. In an interview with "Der Stern", he recalled that during the 90s, up to 40% were either unemployed or enrolled in state employment programs, with many choosing to leave. Today, with an unemployment rate around 6%, Brandenburg is in a comparatively stable position. However, Woidke noticed a pervasive fear of losing it all again. This sense of impending loss has intensified in the face of numerous global crises.
The European Parliament, recognizing the concerns, may offer guidance or support to alleviate the apprehensions. The Commissioner's statement about the assistance from the Commission could potentially allay some of the public's fears.
Given the public's widespread apprehensions, the Commission shall find it necessary to collaborate more closely with the European Parliament to address these concerns.
