This commentary was first published in the German Foreign Office's Review 2014. Click here to read it in its original format.

The German Foreign Office's "Review 2014" takes a critical look at German foreign policy. Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier asked 50 experts "What, if anything, is wrong with German foreign policy? What needs to be changed?"

Daniela Schwarzer, the director of GMF's Europe Program, responded that Germany's engagement needs to be further strengthened in the Economic and Monetary Union as well as in the Common Foreign and Security Policy. The predominant themes for European policy during the last few years were the German role in euro area crisis management and the further development of the institutions and procedures in the monetary union – in the face of increasing criticism of the EU, growing populism and debates about disintegration. In recent times, the focus has shifted to the Eastern Partnership and relations with Russia. In all likelihood, these issues will continue to dominate Germany's European agenda in the coming years. In order to deal with these challenges, Germany needs closer relations with strategically important member states and the Community institutions, and should promote effective cooperation in small groups, but help prevent the formation of camps in the EU-28. Meanwhile, the discussion within Germany must emphasize time and again that efforts to promote European unity and strength are not costs for Germany. Rather this is an investment in our future, which is inextricably linked to the stability and success of Europe.

Read the rest of Daniela's commentary here.

 Photo: © European Union 2014 - European Parliament