The EU’s Engine Out of Sync – France and Germany in Crisis:
What Does This Mean for Europe’s Economy?

Virtual Debate - from 12h30 to 13h30 CET

Welcome & Moderation

Dr. Horst HEITZ
Secretary General, SME Europe

Debate

Anthony BISCH
Counselor for French Citizens Abroad for Belgium

Tobias WINKLER
Member of the German Bundestag, Committee on European Union Affairs

Dr. Florian HARTLEB
Political Consultant, Expert on Populism, Former Research Fellow, Wilfried Martens Center for European Studies

France and Germany, traditionally seen as the “engine” of the European Union, are facing significant political turmoil. In Germany, debates over potential snap elections amid tensions within the coalition government and declining public support are fueling uncertainty. Meanwhile, France is grappling with a government crisis, where political deadlock and social unrest are undermining the executive’s ability to act.
This instability in the EU’s core countries not only threatens their leadership roles but also raises critical questions about the future of Europe’s economy. How can businesses navigate growing uncertainty? What are the implications of political crises for investments, trade relations, and the single market? And what role must the EU play in ensuring economic stability and restoring confidence?

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The publication of this document received financial support from the European Parliament. Sole liability rests with the author. The European Parliament is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein.