Prague – A recent debate within the European Parliament highlighted deep divisions among Czech and European lawmakers regarding the future direction of the European Union, with discussions ranging from bureaucratic hurdles and energy prices to concerns about defense spending and Russian influence. The exchange, hosted by CNN Prima News, featured prominent figures from across the political spectrum, revealing a fractured landscape as the EU grapples with complex challenges.
The debate began with Nikola Bartůšek clarifying her current status as an independent Euro MP, following a shift away from the Patriots for Europe party. She explained that pressure to align with the current governing coalition had led to this change, as her party did not fit within the existing political alignment.
Jaroslava Pokorná Jermanová, representing ANO, disputed claims that Bartůšek was under pressure from other Euro MPs within her party.
Alexandr Vondra of the ODS (Civic Democratic Party) contrasted European and American approaches to risk-taking, citing the example of American skier Lindsey Vonn competing with a knee injury. He noted the European tendency towards caution, stating, “And from Europe comes the response: That is too irresponsible. She shouldn’t have done that.”
The discussion then turned to factors hindering the EU’s progress. Pokorná Jermanová pointed to high energy prices, excessive European regulation, and restrictive public procurement laws as key obstacles. Danuše Nerudová, representing STAN (Mayors and Independents), echoed concerns about energy costs while advocating for a unified European government, stating, “And we don’t have a unified European government. That’s what holds us back, because everyone wants to go in different directions in these agendas.”
Kateřina Konečná of the Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia (KSČM) offered a dissenting view, arguing that the EU’s problems stemmed from mistakes made over the past two decades, particularly since the Lisbon Treaty. She emphasized the need to restore sovereignty to member states and resist pressure to cede control over funds and veto power. “I would like the sovereignty of member states to be stronger,” Konečná stated.
Bartůšek added to this critique, highlighting barriers within the internal market that she believes impose costs equivalent to a 40% tariff on businesses. She also criticized what she described as a strong ideological bias and restrictions on the free movement of services, goods, and people.
The debate grew heated when Vondra accused ANO leader Andrej Babiš of presenting different narratives in the Czech Republic versus Brussels. Pokorná Jermanová responded sharply, accusing Vondra’s ODS party of attempting to revive its fortunes through attacks on ANO.
Luděk Niedermayer emphasized the importance of decarbonization and its potential to lower the cost of emissions permits, benefiting businesses. The conversation then shifted to a contentious exchange between Nerudová and Konečná, with Nerudová accusing Konečná of being a “wasted Russian investment” and Konečná responding by criticizing the quality of Nerudová’s academic credentials.
Discussions also touched upon defense spending, with Pokorná Jermanová and Konečná arguing against increasing military expenditures. Nerudová vehemently disagreed, stating, “That’s a traitor. Nothing else.” She expressed concern about the EU’s reliance on the United States for security, warning that without American support, the EU would be unable to defend itself.
Pokorná Jermanová countered that a future Babiš government would manage defense spending more effectively than the current administration, even while maintaining a level of two percent of GDP. She accused Vondra of spreading misinformation.
Vondra warned that a continuation of the current approach could undermine NATO, while Niedermayer stressed the importance of maintaining American support for the alliance. Konečná reiterated the need to prioritize investment in people and reduce energy dependence.
The debate concluded with moderator Terezie Tománková thanking the participants and viewers.
