Warsaw, 13 December 2024
The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) Group held Study Days in Warsaw on 10-13 December, bringing together MEPs and leading experts to tackle pressing issues on the EU agenda. Seven working sessions covered topics ranging from the rule of law, freedom of expression, the impact of the Green Deal on agriculture, migration and border protection to economic competitiveness, transport, internet freedom and the role of the family in the European social model. Former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki delivered a keynote speech on the state of the European Union.
“We are fighting for a European Union that draws its strength to face future challenges from honouring its roots, offering common sense solutions, fostering cooperation and working for every citizen across the Union”, said ECR Co-President Nicola Procaccini at the opening of the event.
A spotlight on urgent issues:
Rule of law and freedom of expression
Discussions highlighted the increasing politicisation of the rule of law, with participants calling on EU institutions to respect treaty principles and avoid overstepping their mandate. They stressed that Europe’s fundamental rights and values stem from its Western cultural and civilisational heritage and warned against a normative crisis in the EU’s mainstream political discourse.
Agriculture and the Green Deal
MEPs also highlighted the negative impact of the European Green Deal on the agricultural sector, noting that recent crises have exacerbated the challenges facing farmers. They called for a policy shift that prioritises European food security and the interests of farmers over ideological agendas.
Migration and security
The growing migration crisis was a focal point, with calls for tighter external border controls, closer cooperation with countries of origin and transit, and the establishment of reception centres outside the EU. Participants warned that migration is increasingly being used as a weapon in hybrid warfare by regimes such as Russia and Belarus, and called for a robust EU response. They stressed that the phrase “Fortress Europe” could be a reference point in the debate. The aim should be to protect its people, cultures and values, while advocating more practical interpretations of outdated international treaties.
Economic competitiveness
The EU’s economic lag behind the United States was blamed on over-regulation, excessive bureaucracy and rising energy costs due to green transition policies. MEPs stressed the need for deregulation to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, noting that artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies remain stifled under the current EU framework.
Infrastructure development
The future of Poland’s Central Communication Port (CPK) highlighted wider concerns about transport infrastructure in Central and Eastern Europe. Participants called for EU funding to address the development gap in the region and highlighted Poland’s strategic importance as a link to Ukraine. They criticised excessive bureaucratic and environmental requirements as hampering progress.
Internet freedom
Participants also addressed the twin challenges of ensuring internet freedom and fighting illegal content. They criticised EU regulations for going too far and turning digital platforms into gatekeepers for institutional narratives. MEPs warned that these measures threaten freedom of expression, innovation and political competition, especially for non-mainstream voices.
The role of the family in Europe
The central role of the family in the European social model was reaffirmed, with participants citing Poland’s pro-family policies as a successful example. They highlighted the threats posed by economic insecurity, demographic decline and ideological shifts, and called for comprehensive policies to support families and ensure Europe’s long-term stability.
Commitment to a better Europe
The Study Days concluded with a renewed commitment to work for an EU that values sovereignty, common sense and the needs of its citizens. The ECR Group will continue its work to prioritise pragmatic solutions that strengthen Europe’s prosperity and security, in line with the ECR motto ‘the EU should do less, but better’.
Source – ECR Group (by email)