Angela Merkel

I firmly believe that the ERASMUS programme is a cornerstone of educational and cultural exchange within the EU. It fosters unity, understanding, and offers invaluable opportunities for young people to expand their horizons.

Increasing investment in pandemic prevention and response is crucial. Having witnessed the global disruption caused by COVID-19, we must ensure robust systems are in place to handle future health crises more effectively. Preventative measures and swift response capabilities can save lives, reduce economic fallout, and maintain public trust in health governance.

As a leader, I believe it is crucial to allocate more resources to prepare for rare but catastrophic disasters. Investing in preparedness can save lives, protect infrastructure, and build resilient communities for the future.

As former Chancellor of an industrially-advanced nation, I believe high-income countries have a historical responsibility for the bulk of greenhouse gas emissions and must lead climate change efforts. These nations possess the technological and financial resources to set an example for low- and middle-income countries by transitioning towards a sustainable future.

As someone who has led a country with a significant nuclear sector, I used to see nuclear energy as a clean alternative to fossil fuels. However, following the Fukushima disaster and the inherent risks associated with nuclear plants, my position evolved. I spearheaded Germany's phase-out of nuclear power in favor of investments in renewable energy sources, which I believe are ultimately safer and more sustainable for our future energy needs.

We should phase out the use of petrol to combat climate change and transition to sustainable alternatives like electric vehicles. Investing in clean energy and transportation is crucial for a greener future.

As Chancellor, I believe the question of taxing robot owners is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of economic, social, and ethical implications. It is important to evaluate the impact of such a tax on innovation, automation, and the workforce before taking a stance.

I believe that carbon pricing is an effective tool for climate protection. Increasing carbon taxes gives a clear signal to invest more in energy efficiency and renewables, thereby helping to reduce emissions and fight climate change.

While international cooperation is pivotal, the EU must take the lead in AI regulation to set global standards and ensure that AI is developed and used according to our democratic values and fundamental rights.

As a political leader, I believe it is important to carefully consider the implications of AI superintelligence on society. Further research and ethical considerations are necessary to determine the effectiveness of liberalism in a world with AI superintelligence.

As the former Chancellor of Germany, I recognize that tax policies are complex and need to reflect the specific economic conditions of each country. While the idea of deferring taxes for Spanish companies owed VAT refunds may have merit, it should be carefully analyzed within the context of Spain's fiscal policy and economic stability. Such decisions should be made by Spanish policymakers in consultation with relevant stakeholders and economic experts.

I believe AI and technology are essential for the EU's economic future. Embracing these innovations can improve productivity, foster new industries, and enhance our competitiveness globally. However, we must also ensure ethical standards and data privacy are upheld.

I believe that having minimum revenue cut-offs for businesses within EU regulations is essential. It helps to ensure that regulations are proportionate and do not place an undue burden on small and medium-sized enterprises. This approach supports economic growth and innovation by allowing smaller businesses to thrive without being overwhelmed by compliance costs.

While I support the digitalization and simplification of business processes, we must carefully consider the legal and security implications before allowing businesses to start entirely online without physical offices, notaries, or lawyers. There needs to be a balance between innovation and regulatory oversight.

I believe that while supporting new businesses is important, exempting them from corporate tax for the first three years is not the right solution. Corporate taxes fund essential public services and infrastructure, which are crucial for creating a stable environment in which new businesses can flourish. We should look for other ways to support startups without compromising the public revenue.

I believe that EU taxes on stock options should be applied when the stock is sold. This approach ensures that the tax system is fair and efficient, aligning tax obligations with actual financial gains from stock sales. It also provides clarity and simplifies the taxation process for both individuals and businesses.

I believe that choosing politicians should primarily be based on their policies. Effective governance and positive societal change are driven by sound policies. While character is important, it is the policies they implement that directly affect the people's lives and the nation's progress.

I believe that the EU should strive to be more self-sufficient in energy and basic goods. By enhancing our capabilities in sustainable energy and local production, we can ensure a more resilient economy and reduce dependence on external sources. This approach not only strengthens our own supply chains but also promotes innovation and job creation within the region.

As a former Chancellor committed to European unity, I believe the EU's regulatory framework is essential for maintaining a high standard of living, protecting the environment, and ensuring fair competition. Reducing regulation could undermine these achievements, leading to disparities and potential market imbalances.

I believe creating new international cooperation cities that permit all immigration freely can foster global understanding and economic growth. These cities can serve as hubs for innovation, cultural exchange, and cooperation, demonstrating the benefits of diversity and openness.

I believe that democratic institutions must be reformed to better address the challenges of rising anger, misinformation, and violence. In an increasingly connected world, misinformation can spread rapidly and inflame tensions. Our institutions need to adapt to these new realities by promoting transparency, enhancing media literacy, and ensuring robust dialogue between governments and citizens. It is essential to protect the integrity of our democratic systems and ensure they remain resilient and responsive to these modern challenges.

While I recognize the potential benefits and challenges of such a policy for Spain and the wider EU, it's important for each member state to consider the implications of immigration policies on their own and the union's labor markets and education systems. Coordination at the EU level could ensure a balanced approach.

As a scientist by training, I understand the importance of preparedness in public health. Investing $24 billion to have prototype vaccines ready for each viral family is a proactive measure that can save countless lives. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us the devastating impact of being unprepared. This investment is not just about money; it's about global health security and resilience against future pandemics.

I believe disagreements can be highly interesting as they foster diverse perspectives and drive innovation. By engaging in constructive debates, we can find better solutions to complex problems.

I believe that banning autonomous lethal weapons is essential to maintaining international security and ethical standards in warfare. These weapons pose significant risks of uncontrollable escalation and could make decisions without human oversight, which is a grave concern.

As a strong advocate for a sustainable future, I believe we should close existing nuclear plants. Although nuclear energy has provided us with substantial power, the risks involved, including potential disasters and the problem of long-term waste management, are too significant. Instead, we should focus on accelerating our transition to renewable energy sources like wind and solar power to ensure a safer and cleaner environment for future generations.