State of the Union Address

Europe must become economically strong again and capable of acting in foreign and security policy. Paneuropa commentary on the 2026 State of the Union address.

The Paneuropa Movement Austria welcomes key European policy impulses in today’s State of the Union address by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. In particular, closer ties with Canada, the initiative for a European Security Council and the clear stance on the growing threats from Russia are important steps towards a Europe that is more capable of acting.

“In an increasingly uncertain world, Europe must learn to represent its interests with self-confidence. Closer involvement of Canada and a European Security Council can help Europe’s democracies move closer together in foreign and security policy. Equally necessary is a firm line towards Russia: anyone who attacks Europe’s security, infrastructure and democratic order must expect a determined joint response,” says Rainhard Kloucek, President of the Paneuropa Movement Austria.

At the same time, Europe must make better use of its economic strength. “The single market is one of our greatest strategic instruments. But we must not overload it with regulation. Europe needs common rules – but rules that work. Better application, simplification and uniform implementation of existing European law must take precedence over ever new reporting obligations and additional bureaucracy,” Kloucek said.

European capacity to act therefore means both: more common strength where Europe is stronger together – and less unnecessary complexity where it hinders growth and initiative.

Featured image: European Union 2026 Christophe Licoppe