Under the slogan Europe as a Task, the Czech Republic is responsible for assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union this semester. This message aims to convey a vision: rethink, strengthen, and rebuild. The situation in the European continent is currently not at its best, due to the war in Ukraine, high inflation, and the uncertainty surrounding energy security. All these setbacks present challenges for the European Union, and that is why the joint action of all countries is the only way to overcome these situations.

Ambassador Ivan Jančárek divides his presentation into three key points, which are priorities when addressing the presidency of the Council of the European Union. Firstly, Europe’s dependence on Russian energy resources has made energy security a top priority for the European Union. Unfortunately, as Ambassador Jančárek asserts, this dependence cannot change overnight. To address this dependence, alternative supplies have had to be found from other sources such as the United States, Qatar, and Mozambique… On the other hand, renewable energies as a short-term solution are not a viable option, and therefore, the shift toward greener energy may take more time, although this does not mean that the challenges of the COP and climate change are in doubt or will be sidelined.

Secondly, the war in Ukraine will also be a topic of discussion during these months of Czech Presidency. The priorities within this conflict are the management of Ukrainian refugees and the reconstruction of the country; which is essential for citizens who had to flee the military actions, so they can return to an Ukraine ready to welcome them. It is expected that the war will continue, and therefore the European Union has a moral obligation to provide aid, both military and financial. But not only that, the candidacy of Ukraine for the European Union is also important, as it recognizes an extraordinary situation, thus supporting the country.

Thirdly, the Czech Ambassador also refers to the European defense system. Among his objectives are promoting the defense of cyberspace and outer space, as well as seeking total technological independence through the development of industries, including military ones. Another priority in this area would be the implementation of the challenges and objectives laid out in the Strategic Compass, which was adopted by the European Union earlier this year. To achieve this, Jančárek emphasizes that “we will need help from NATO, and that is why the decision by allied countries to increase defense spending by 2% is very important.”

To conclude, the Ambassador ends the presentation with a nod to international challenges. Building a strong, resilient, and sustainable Europe, one that is willing to collaborate and cooperate with other countries and organizations to achieve the goals set out in the strategic compass, will be crucial for the Czech Republic during its European presidency and the priorities and objectives it has set for these months, given the current international context.

Judit Anidjar

Communication Assistant, INCIPE