Energy crisis: the German "shield" worries in Europe
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, center, Economics and Climate Minister Robert Habeck, left, and Finance Minister Christian Lindner, right, at a press conference on the energy supply situation in Germany, in Berlin, Thursday, September 29, 2022. AP - Markus Schreiber
Text by: RFI Follow
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The 200 billion euro plan announced by Germany to support its economy worries Europe.
After Italy, France and Belgium, it is the turn of the Commissioners for the Economy and the Internal Market, Paolo Gentiloni and Thierry Breton, to call today for more consultation in the face of rising energy prices. .
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For European leaders, a common and united response to the energy crisis is needed.
This position statement follows Germany's announcement.
Berlin will indeed spend 200 billion euros to offset the rise in gas prices and support purchasing power.
A German plan that arouses strong criticism.
Not all European countries can trigger the same mechanism due to a higher level of public debt.
The two European commissioners therefore call for a common loan in the face of the energy crisis.
The idea is to draw inspiration from the mechanism put in place during the Covid pandemic to finance partial unemployment measures.
Austerity for others, shield for oneself
Another problem and not the least: the German shield will also encourage consumption instead of reducing it, as the Twenty-Seven have committed to it.
Berlin is accused of duplicity: advocating austerity in Brussels while spending lavishly on its own account.
The size and uncoordinated nature of the initiative raise fears that Germany is giving its companies an advantage over their competitors from countries that cannot afford such a massive "shield" against soaring oil prices. energy.
Finally, Germany is holding back on plans to cap gas prices.
A measure supported by fifteen European countries.
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To read also:
In Germany, a massive support plan in the face of rising energy prices
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Economy
Energies
Germany