The concept of the European Commission developing its own intelligence service is drawing support from political figures in Berlin. Roderich Kiesewetter, a security policy politician for the CDU, told the “Handelsblatt” that enhancing the EU’s own capabilities is crucial for its security policy, and the intelligence dimension is particularly vital. He welcomed the idea of the EU constructing a dedicated intelligence analysis unit.
Support for the initiative also comes from the SPD. According to Sebastian Fiedler, the parliamentary group’s domestic policy spokesperson, while the European Union can protect its financial interests-as seen with the EU Fraud Authority-it cannot shield its very existence. Therefore, he stated that it is only logical to entrust a dedicated agency with observing the threats facing the European Union. However, he noted that further discussion is needed regarding the agency’s specific powers and oversight.
Kiesewetter stressed that any new intelligence framework must deliver “operational added value” meaning it must go beyond the scope of existing analysis units. He cautioned against merely creating additional structures for their own sake, arguing that such a unit must be equipped to process data and information derived from both military and hybrid domains.
Despite the strong political backing, the functional success of any such European structure hinges on a critical element: the willingness of member states to deliver, exchange, and network relevant information in a timely manner. Without effective exchange and networking among member states, any European structure cannot operate effectively.