Europe at a Crossroads

Europe stands at a crossroads today. After years of relative stability, we are now facing new challenges where geopolitical shifts and protectionist interests of major powers are rapidly reshaping global relations. Trade wars, growing competition, and political tensions are forcing the European Union to reconsider its role on the world stage. As Ursula von der Leyen correctly stated at the World Economic Forum in Davos, we are now confronting a world divided along geostrategic lines. Instead of mutual cooperation, the focus is increasingly shifting toward great power rivalry.

At this critical moment, voices are emerging that call for abandoning the EU’s current strategy, particularly the green transformation of economies and decarbonization, or even withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement. They advocate for a return to fossil fuels, claiming this is the key to economic growth and prosperity. But is this truly the path we want to take? A return to fossil fuels? To wastefulness and the exploitation of natural resources, which have already shown their devastating consequences for our planet? Do we really want to return to a past where the sole objective was profit maximization at the expense of the environment, public health, and future generations? Such an approach would not only be short-sighted but fundamentally irresponsible.

Investing in renewable energy, sustainable development, and a circular economy, along with massive support for innovation and new technologies – this is the path to the future. A path that combines economic prosperity and competitiveness with responsibility for our planet. The world is changing, and Europe must be prepared to respond to these changes appropriately. A return to outdated and unsustainable models will not bring any economic miracle. We must look ahead, toward the future.

As the President of the European Commission also stated: "Europe has a strong economy and a unique social-market model. It has the chance to show the world that even in difficult times, it can remain a stable and strong player. But to do so, we must firmly believe in our values" (democracy, an open society, transparency, the rule of law, justice, sustainability, and responsibility) "Only then can we not only survive but thrive."

Of course, we face numerous challenges, both within the EU and on the global stage. Some strategies and directives may need to be adjusted or revised. This is part of reflecting on the current situation. It is crucial that even in these challenging geopolitical times, we do not lose our direction and do not abandon the fundamental values that have formed the foundation of a post-war democratic, open, socially conscious, economically prosperous, and friendly Europe.

These days, we also commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp, a factory of death. We remember the victims of the Holocaust, the worst crime in human history, where a twisted Nazi racial ideology led to the extermination of six million Jews, hundreds of thousands of Roma, and other minorities and vulnerable groups simply because they were deemed inferior. This tragic experience was a primary reason for building a new, cooperative, open, free, prosperous, and democratic Europe after the war. That is why we must uphold the values that protect us from repeating such atrocities!

Europe must remain united and embrace unity in diversity, as only this will enable us to face growing threats, trade wars, and challenges linked to climate change. Let us use this moment as an opportunity to build a sustainable, responsible, fair, and resilient Europe.