protectionism

  The steam engine, followed by electricity, the combustion engine (leading to automobiles) and computers all brought tremendous improvements and productivity gains, leading to widespread prosperity in many countries. They also caused great anxieties and fear of unemployment. Yet, the increased prosperity created new demand, and the jobs lost, for instance in agriculture, were replaced […]

  In late 2025, the European Union agreed to accelerate the removal of the customs-duty exemption for imported parcels valued under 150 euros, a technical change that will take effect from mid-2026. Under the new regime, low-value parcels entering the EU from third countries will be subject to a fixed customs duty, ending a long-standing […]

  The European Union sees itself as a rules-based power and a force for good in the global economy. Its regulations are often presented as embodiments of universal values: protecting consumers, ensuring sustainability and promoting digital responsibility. Over the past two decades, this model has become a defining part of Europe’s global identity. Nevertheless, for […]

  Already during the Covid-19 crisis – and even more so now, amid war, protectionism and sanctions – the issue of economic supply has become obvious. Domestic sources in Europe, particularly for raw materials, were neither developed nor used. The (failed) guiding principle seemed to be: let others do the dirty work; we are good and […]