If we want to create new rules of globalization, then we can't just think in terms of the nation state. The nation state has long offered protection. But it suffers from the fact that many citizens increasingly fear that it can no longer protect them: The threat of transnational terrorism is growing. Freedom of movement rules in Europe facilitate social dumping. Regardless of the make-up of the next government, it must have clear ideas on how to overcome the lack of direction of recent years.
Martin SchulzI would have oriented myself in case of Donald Trump according to what former German Chancellor Gerhard Schrรถder said to then - U.S. President George W. Bush when the Americans launched a war that was in violation of international law. Schrรถder showed that a German chancellor can act in a clear and self-confident manner toward a U.S. president.
Martin SchulzSolidarity is the fundamental idea of European cooperation. If a country feels itself to be militarily threatened and calls for soldiers, weapons and sanctions, then that's what it gets. When governments say they need money from the structural funds to stabilize their economy, that's what they get. But you can't cherry pick solidarity.
Martin SchulzWe won't get any growth in Greece by just imposing cuts. What I would prefer is a special economic zone for Greece.
Martin SchulzThe problem with us EU politicians is that we approach everything with cool rationality, and then wonder why we don't win people over emotionally.
Martin SchulzJust come to Brussels after a Council meeting. Do you know what happens? Every head of government holds his or her own press conference. They all say the same thing, in 24 languages: I was able to push through my agenda. And if the result is anything other than what they desired, the message is: Brussels is to blame. It has been this way for over 20 years. These messages stick with people, and that's deadly for Europe.
Martin Schulz