To lead or to be led
A call for Europe to lead in a world of autocracies and oligarchies.
Europe stands at a critical crossroads
Following the election of Donald Trump and the rise of a reactionary international alliance, driven by oligarchic and plutocratic interests, we are witnessing attempts to undermine democratic foundations from within our own continent. These forces seek to sell off our common values and the European project, reducing us to mere satellites of others—just as happened exactly 80 years ago in Yalta. We cannot allow this to happen, but preventing it requires a true and vigorous shift, not the slow, bureaucratic, and reassuring routine of Brussels.
This is a time for choice
A moment to act decisively in order to protect
And relaunch Europe
Treaty Reform
The European Union needs new rules to become more efficient and democratic, responding swiftly and ambitiously to the needs of European citizens and the dynamic challenges of the future. A stronger Europe, capable of leading, will continue to rely on the strength of its Member States and regions as the driving protagonists of European democracy.
European Foreign and Security Policy
In a time of geopolitical rivalry, the EU must strengthen its foreign policy and reform institutions to protect its interests and lead globally. By promoting multilateralism, peace, human rights, and enhancing defense cooperation, it can ensure security and reduce reliance on external powers.
Economic Competitiveness
We must ensure prosperity and job creation by reducing bureaucracy, promoting 'Made in Europe' industries, and pragmatically tackling the complexities of an increasingly challenging global market, where looming tariff threats must be met with firmness.
Future Economy
The digital realm cannot remain a lawless frontier. Europe must lead the digital and artificial intelligence revolution, placing ethics, transparency, and the protection of citizens’ rights at the core.
Culture and Education
These are the foundations upon which to build an even stronger European identity, one that unites generations and prepares young people for the challenges of the future.
We do not want a Europe crushed between oligarchies and autocracies.
We want a Europe that leads change, defends its democratic sovereignty, and unites its forces to confront global challenges with determination.
The Shakespearean dilemma of the Prince of Denmark, Hamlet, thus becomes for us European democrats a defining choice: “To lead or to be led.” This is not just a question—it is the answer we must give today, with the courage of our ideas and the strength of our unity. This is the moment to decide.
It is time to act. Europe must lead.
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