Katharina Barley is a member of the SPD party executive committee The past legislative period was characterised by unforeseeable shocks such as the pandemic and Russia's war against Ukraine. Inflation, strained supply chains and panic buying also posed major challenges for the retail sector.

one: What are your party's priorities for the coming years in the area of food trade?
Katharina Barley: We are committed to promoting regional value creation and preserving rural structures. They are the main pillars of a secure food supply in the EU. In order to ensure a stable and competitive economy in the food trade, we are committed to affordable energy prices. We promote the use of sustainable and favourable energy sources such as wind, sun and water to ensure long-term economic stability. Renewable energy makes us independent of fossil fuels and the countries that supply them. Low energy and commodity prices keep inflation in the food industry low and enable fair prices for consumers. The SPD is committed to fair trade practices in the food trade. This also benefits our farmers and fair trade competitors. We also want to promote training and further education in the retail sector in order to remedy the shortage of skilled labour and increase the attractiveness of the industry.

one: Many rapporteurs see Europe in a crisis in terms of domestic and foreign policy. What continues to inspire you about Europe?
Katharina Barley: First of all, Europe is my home. My children are a quarter German, a quarter British, a quarter Dutch and a quarter Spanish. My current husband is Dutch. I live in the centre of Europe on the border with Luxembourg and France. The European Union has brought peace and stability to the people in its member states for almost 70 years. Before that, Europe was a continent at war for centuries. We are part of a miracle. I wholeheartedly want this history to continue. We have to do something about it. Because right now the world is reorganising itself. In this world, we need a strong Europe that remains united in diversity.

one: The last turnout in the European elections was just over 50%. Why should citizens go to the polls this time in particular?
Katharina Barley: Because the EU is under threat from within, from far-right parties, and from outside, from dictators like Putin. If we want to defend the EU and its liberal values, as many people in Germany as possible must vote for democratic parties. Preferably the SPD, of course. It is the only party that consistently stands for a policy of economic strength and social cohesion. It has not worked with extremists for over 160 years. At the demonstrations at the beginning of the year, we saw how many people in Germany share these values. With a high voter turnout, we can keep the right-wing extremists down!

one: Which item should never be missing from your shopping basket?
Katharina Barley: As half British, a good Darjeeling tea is a must for me. Also olives and nuts as a source of energy when I'm out campaigning.

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