It has long been clear that Germany and Europe are facing enormous expenditures. Geopolitical, economic, and security-related demands are forcing this. States must significantly increase their investments and secure their financing. This will not only affect the debt levels of EU countries (and possibly the debt of the EU as a whole), but also growth rates. Companies, too, must once again invest on a large scale in order to build the necessary capacities and remain internationally competitive.
But is Europe as a business location putting in a strong performance? The Family Business Country Index has just shown: It is especially the large countries that are falling behind. They face massive losses in prosperity. Now more than ever, it is important to turn our focus to Europe.
In this issue, six professors present six visions for Europe. They propose essential reforms and initiatives for the EU.