Europa-Union Bavaria: Amberg Assembly for Peace and Cooperation

Europa-Union Bavaria: Amberg Assembly for Peace and Cooperation

On July 4, 2025, the 74th state assembly of the European Union of Bavaria took place in the Musikomm of the OTH Amberg, where around a hundred guests came together to discuss Europe's challenges and opportunities. The meeting sent a clear signal for Europe in challenging times and began with an impressive greeting from Manfred Weber MEP, which motivated those present and stimulated reflection. State Secretary Tobias Gotthardt MdL then took the floor and spoke about the need for respect in one another and pragmatic solutions to the current challenges facing Europe.

At an exciting European dialogue on the topic “Sovereignty. Security. Europe.” different voices had their say. Birgit Boeser from the European Academy of Bavaria criticized the lack of acceptance on defense issues, while Thomas Rudner, former MEP, called for increased diplomacy. Dr. Urs Herding, CEO of Amberger Herding GmbH, highlighted the need for more flexible approaches to procurement and defense issues. The discussion was moderated by state chairman Thorsten Frank and offered space for questions from the audience, which made the dialogue lively and interactive.

Elections and changes in the board

Another important point at the meeting was the election of the new board. Thorsten Frank and the treasurer were unanimously confirmed in their positions, marking Frank's third term in office. Walter Göbl, Dr. Reinhard Schaupp and Matthias Zürl were confirmed, while Isabella Ammann was re-elected. A total of 13 candidates competed for 11 positions on the state board, with the new members of the team being Max Bauer, Thomas Sondergelt, Bernd Klatt, Maili Wagner, Stefanie Schneider, Nickolas Stamou, Rainer Mitschke, Caronline Schmitt, Francesco Abate and Edith Oszlari.

An interesting element of the meeting was the adoption of eight resolutions that addressed fundamental European issues. This includes:

• Grenzenlose Freiheit im Schengenraum
• Einführung eines europäischen Behindertenausweises
• Beibehaltung der Fluggastrechte
• 2-jähriger TÜV-Rhythmus für Kraftfahrzeuge

Looking into the future

Udo Bux, head of the southern German information office, highlighted current discussions in the European Parliament during the meeting and provided valuable insights into the political situation. The delegates worked in two working groups on the topics of “defending values ​​vigorously” and association public relations and were able to present the results of these groups at the end of the meeting.

The meeting came to a ceremonial conclusion with the playing of the European anthem, which marked a fitting end to a day full of engagement and exchange. Among those present were Mayor Michael Cerny and district chairman Hermann Kucharski, who also gave greetings at the city of Amberg reception. This meeting was not just an exchange about politics, but a real commitment to the common European future.

For further information you can view the detailed reports Upper Palatinate Echo and European Union Bavaria read up.