Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, emphasized the complex challenges facing the European Union in her annual speech at the European Parliament held in the city of Strasbourg. This speech came at a time when the European Union is confronted with multiple crises, including the migration crisis, climate change, and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Challenges of migration and border security
Von der Leyen noted that the migration crisis has become one of the key and urgent issues. She stated that serious attention must be given to border management to prevent the illegal entry of migrants. The President of the European Commission emphasized the need for cooperation among member states in this regard and added that the European Union must act as a single entity to address the security and humanitarian challenges arising from migration.
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Impact of climate change and the war in Ukraine
Furthermore, Ursula von der Leyen referred to the impacts of climate change on Europe's security and economy and called for immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. She emphasized that climate change is not only an environmental challenge but also a security challenge that requires serious attention from policymakers. Additionally, the President of the European Commission mentioned the war in Ukraine, stating that this war has not only affected Europe's security but has also had profound impacts on the economic and social conditions of the continent.
Von der Leyen concluded her speech by emphasizing the necessity of cooperation and solidarity among the member states of the European Union, stating that joint strategies must be developed to address global challenges. She added: "We live in an increasingly hostile world, and only through cooperation can we overcome these challenges."
This speech was delivered at a time when many EU countries are facing multiple internal and external challenges. Given the existing crises, the European Union requires a coordinated and comprehensive approach to tackle these issues.
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