Germany’s representation within EU institutions is facing a deepening crisis, with a significant underrepresentation of German staff, particularly at lower and mid-level positions, according to a recent analysis by the European Commission. The shortfall is prompting harsh criticism and raising concerns about Germany’s ability to effectively advocate for its interests within the bloc.
The current situation is exacerbated by a wave of retirements among senior German officials, leaving a proportionally smaller pool to mentor and develop future generations of German administrators. Official figures reveal a mere 7.9% representation of German staff at entry to mid-level positions, falling far short of the 13.8% target set by Brussels.
This imbalance is sparking political backlash, with Daniel Caspary, leader of the CDU/CSU group in the European Parliament, voicing substantial concern. “We observe with growing alarm the continuing decline in the proportion of German staff within European institutions” he stated. “To ensure German interests are represented and German specifics are considered, a more significant German presence in these institutions is essential”. Caspary warned of a potentially catastrophic chain reaction if left unaddressed, predicting a scarcity of German senior officials in the future due to the current lack of junior staff.
The European Commission acknowledges the issue, stating that measures are underway to increase the participation of underrepresented nations. These measures include mandatory interviews with candidates from member states with limited representation during the awarding of temporary contracts. However, a Commission spokesperson conceded that the salaries offered within EU institutions may no longer be sufficiently attractive to German applicants, contributing to a shortage of qualified candidates compared to other nationalities.
The issue extends beyond simply recruiting more staff. The Bund der Steuerzahler (German Taxpayer Association) has condemned the situation, highlighting the disparity between Germany’s substantial financial contribution to the EU – approximately one in four Euros – and its diminished influence over the administrative bodies distributing those funds. “It is unacceptable that Germany pays for a significant portion of the EU budget whilst possessing minimal influence in the administrative apparatus distributing those funds” asserted Michael Jäger, Vice President of the association. He urged the German Chancellor to prioritize the matter and treat it as a top-level concern.
The underrepresentation of German staff is not simply a matter of bureaucratic imbalance, but a potential impediment to effective governance and a challenge to the principle of equitable participation within the European Union. The German government is now facing mounting pressure to address the root causes of the problem and to actively champion a stronger German voice within EU institutions.