There are names on the political scene that appear in the media almost daily. And then there are names that are mentioned much less frequently, even though their holders are no less knowledgeable and skilled in their profession. In the international and diplomatic sphere, one such figure is undoubtedly Eduard Hulicius – longtime EU institution official, deputy minister of foreign affairs, and vice-chair of KDU-ČSL.
Does Brussels – meaning the European Commission and its officials – really rule over Europe? If so, in what way?
I would begin by saying that one of the strongest characteristics of the “Brussels bubble” is its strict adherence to rules. To treaties and to what the law allows and mandates. And the Commission is, above all, the guardian and enforcer of the Treaties, whose masters are the EU member states and citizens. I would say that the Commission and its officials do not rule but rather execute. They follow mandates, rules, and limits that are set democratically. And their proposals are approved democratically by those same masters of the Treaties. The problem with the relationship toward the EU – or the perception of Brussels as an anonymous and unaccountable place from which directives and regulations rain down, bringing only restrictions and inconveniences – largely stems from a lack of communication and explanation of why these regulations are adopted. It is also due to the time lag that usually occurs between the adoption of legislation and its implementation in practice.
One of your tasks as deputy minister of foreign affairs is to increase the number of Czechs in EU institutions. Where do we stand today, and why is this important when an EU official is, by definition, not a representative of their country but an impartial employee of European institutions?
Even after a year and a half in this role, I have to express dissatisfaction! I must continue to do so until we are adequately represented in institutions and international organizations. And while the situation is changing – as seen in the appointment of staff to the cabinets of European Commission members – it remains a major task for Czech politicians and public administration. Only when our citizens hold responsible positions across various offices can Czech experience, knowledge, and, indirectly, even interests be properly reflected. It is true that one of the key principles in EU institutions is strict impartiality and non-partisanship, but personal experience is precisely the added value that a diverse EU needs to ensure its work for the entire continent is done sensitively.
Looking at the post-Brussels careers of Czech EU commissioners, why is Czechia so poor at utilizing their potential upon their return?
I would say that this also depends on personal dispositions, plans, and visions of individual commissioners. Looking beyond our borders, it is similar elsewhere. It is also a matter of general practice and the relative novelty of this position – we have only had four commissioners so far, and I believe that each of them had the opportunity to put their experience and contacts to good use.
How attractive is work in the European Commission and other institutions?
I think about this constantly – it is part of the motivation plan for potential candidates considering institutional positions. Another characteristic of EU officials that is not widely known is that those in higher positions, in particular, are deeply committed individuals. People who genuinely believe in the European idea and principles, which gives them an extraordinary level of dedication. And they possess highly refined skills and knowledge that they could easily capitalize on much better in the private sector.
You published histories of Belgium and Luxembourg. Do you see any similarities between the histories of these small Western European states and those of Czechia or Slovakia?
At first glance, there are some parallels, particularly between the Czech lands and the historical regions of the broader Netherlands during the High Middle Ages and much of the modern era. We are also, of course, beer superpowers. But upon closer examination, it unfortunately becomes clear that we are separated not only by the German-speaking space but also by different historical conditions and geopolitical destinies. Whether it is the influence of neighbors, differing speeds and phases of cultural and trade/economic development, or the presence of a sea border. Still, something does connect our mentalities – probably the beer and love of good food. It is likely due to the similar size of our societies.
In what ways is Brussels and Belgium a better place to live than Prague?
In 2003, I was very surprised by how green Brussels is – the number of parks and other public spaces. But that is also due to the fact that it rains a lot there. Otherwise, I really wouldn’t compare the two capitals. Prague is in many ways a much more pleasant place to live, though expensive. For example, it is safer, and – incredible as it may seem – it has fewer traffic problems. On the other hand, Brussels has, for example, higher food quality, which is in line with the saying that Belgian cuisine combines the best of French and German – quality and quantity.
What does the highly multicultural environment of Brussels and Belgium bring, and what does it take away, given that immigrants from many other parts of the world live there alongside people from all across the EU?
For visitors, especially from our region, the first impression of Brussels is often shocking. But that is because it is a very “American” city in the heart of Europe, with a large number of minorities being represented – ethnic, cultural, from all over the world. This has tremendous benefits, especially for lovers of culture, diversity, and food options.
In the European Parliament with Věra Jourová.
Does it help Belgium and Luxembourg that they are monarchies?
It contributes to political stability and a certain refinement of public debate. Although royal families do not have strong political power, being the continuity of the representation of a nation's history personified – dedicated to a lifelong role in strenuous service – gives monarchs great strength.
Would you vacation by the sea in Belgium, and would you recommend it to a Czech tourist?
Yes to both. Even though the North Sea is not the Adriatic. It is not the best for coral reef diving, but it is an interesting experience – also because of the organization of the short Belgian coastline. It is more suited for a shorter visit and not necessarily during the summer. Winter weekends are not bad either – the nostalgia of walking along beaches stretching out for miles and watching the ever-changing sea is worth experiencing. But children won’t have much fun… [laughs]
The author is a European editor of Deník
CV BOX
Eduard Hulicius (born October 28, 1980, in Prague) is a political scientist, deputy minister of foreign affairs, and vice-chair of KDU-ČSL.
He earned a bachelor's degree in International Territorial Studies from the Faculty of Social Sciences at Charles University and master's degrees in European Studies from the same faculty and International Politics from the CERIS institute.
Since 2003, he has lived and worked in Brussels, joining the office of KDU-ČSL MEP Zuzana Roithová in September 2011. Since November 2014, he has been a member of the cabinet of European Commissioner Věra Jourová.
He entered politics in 2006 as a member of SNK European Democrats. Later, he served for six months as chairman of the party United Democrats-Association of Independents before joining the European Democratic Party. He became a member of KDU-ČSL in 2012. He has served as deputy minister of foreign affairs since July 2023 and as vice-chair of KDU-ČSL since October 2024.
In 2005, he published The History of Belgium with Libri Publishing, followed by The History of Luxembourg in 2006.
He and his wife Kateřina have three children.
ad
