Danube Institute Podcast The EU is a federation in some areas | Danube Lectures
Oct 8, 2025
Carl Bildt, former Prime Minister of Sweden and a seasoned diplomat, discusses the complexities of EU integration and its future. He analyzes Sweden's EU accession and the multifaceted benefits it brought. Bildt argues for deeper integration, especially in defense and security, while addressing Hungary's contrasting rhetoric on sovereignty amidst reliance on EU funds. He also tackles migration challenges in Europe, highlighting Sweden's successes and political backlash against immigration. Finally, he shares insights on Europe's need to engage globally and the implications of Turkey's stalled EU bid.
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Joining EU Stabilized Post‑Cold War Europe
- Bildt frames Sweden's 1995 EU accession as part of post-Cold War integration to stabilize Eastern Europe.
- He says membership proved economically profitable and strategically important for Sweden.
EU Is Federated In Key Policy Areas
- Carl Bildt argues the EU already behaves like a federation in areas such as the single market, trade, and competition policy.
- He highlights foreign and security policy remains mainly intergovernmental but pressure exists to cooperate more due to global changes.
Prioritize Market Completion And Security Cooperation
- Complete the single market and deepen economic integration to boost competitiveness.
- Strengthen cooperation in foreign and security affairs to handle the altered global situation.