© Jeannot Ries
The Christian Social People's Party (CSV) unveiled its manifesto for the upcoming European elections, emphasising a commitment to strengthening European unity and security, fostering economic growth, and avoiding alliances with far-right parties.
The Christian Social People's Party on Tuesday presented their election manifesto for the European elections, to be held in Luxembourg on 9 June. Candidates underlined the importance of strengthening Europe and moving to the centre, away from the far right.
Co-lead candidate Christophe Hansen delved into the twelve-point programme, highlighting the original idea of the European project: securing peace. In light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, the EU needs solid defence policies and a strong arms industry to reinforce its position within NATO, Hansen emphasised. He further made the case that when it comes to foreign policies, the EU should move away from unanimity.
CSV members advocated for sustainable economic growth in the EU and simplified administrative procedures. Maintaining a high social standard and crisis-resistant healthcare policies should be prioritised, same as digitalisation and innovation, according to the CSV.
While party members acknowledged the EU's potential to further expand to the east, they do not see Turkey as a viable option and believe that another type of cooperation is needed in this particular case. As for the EU's recent migration and asylum reform, the CSV expressed its support.
According to the CSV, the Alternative Democratic Reform Party (ADR) has recently shown far-right tendencies in their rhetoric around Russia and migration. Addressing potential alliances within the EU, co-lead candidate Isabel Wiseler-Lima underlined: "We are in the centre and we will stay in the centre. The bonds that we are seeking out are in the centre. It is out of the question that we team up with the far right. [European Commission President] Ursula von der Leyen also stated clearly; we are staying in the centre."
