EU security debate: Steger calls for Brunner's resignation due to incompetence!

EU security debate: Steger calls for Brunner's resignation due to incompetence!

In a debate in the European Parliament on April 3, 2025, Austrian MEP Petra Steger sharply criticized EU Commissioner Magnus Brunner. The discussion was dedicated to the newly proposed security concept “ProtectEU”, which was presented by Brunner. Steger accused the commissioner of incompetence and a lack of strategy and questioned his suitability for the position.

Steger's accusations are aimed in particular at the financial policy under Brunner, which, in her opinion, has brought Austria into economic difficulties. This assessment is supported by general dissatisfaction with the current financial situation in Austria. Steger criticized the “ProtectEU” security strategy as lacking substance and without concrete measures, which was highlighted as a major deficiency in the debate.

Criticism of EU security policy

A central point of Stger's criticism was the focus of EU security policy on social media censorship. In their view, this priority takes away from the actual security policy challenges. The demand for Magnus Brunner's resignation and a reorientation of the European security strategy was clear in her remarks.

In its common foreign and security policy, the EU pursues goals aimed at conflict resolution and international consensus. This information comes from the European Union side, which also emphasizes that diplomacy and respect for international rules are key. Another problem is that the EU has no standing army and relies on ad hoc military forces provided by member states. This puts pressure on the effectiveness of European peacekeeping missions in crisis areas.

The role of the European External Action Service

The European External Action Service (EEAS) acts as the EU's diplomatic service and coordinates the foreign policies of the member states. According to information from the EU, the Union has over 140 delegations and offices worldwide that aim to promote and protect its values ​​and interests. Foreign and security policy decisions usually require the consent of all EU countries, which often makes the implementation of uniform strategies complicated.

Overall, the debate around “ProtectEU” highlights the existing tensions within the EU regarding security strategy as well as the challenges arising from the diverging political views of the member states. Steger's comments are an expression of growing frustration with the current direction of European security policy, which could potentially trigger a dialogue about necessary reforms.

For further details on current developments in EU security policy, please visit the website OTS and European Union.