On 6th December, the European Democratic Party (EDP) gathered at the iconic Autoworld Car Museum in Brussels for two pivotal events: the EDP Congress and the subsequent Conference titled “The Centre is the Answer.” Held in the heart of Europe, these events showcased the EDP’s commitment to addressing critical challenges facing the continent and reinforcing the relevance of centrist politics.
The EDP Congress: A Moment of Renewal and Action
The Congress brought together EDP delegates from across Europe for a day of deliberation and decision-making, setting the stage for the party’s future. Key outcomes included:
1. Leadership Elections:
Delegates elected new members to the EDP Presidency, ushering in fresh leadership to guide the party forward.
2. Welcoming a New Member Party:
Independent Ireland joined the EDP, underscoring the party’s expanding footprint in European politics.
3. Policy Advances:
The Congress adopted a position paper on migration, reaffirming its commitment to fair and sustainable migration policies.
4. Defending Democracy:
A statement was issued condemning undemocratic actions in Georgia, reflecting the EDP’s staunch advocacy for democracy and the rule of law.
5. A New Visual Identity:
Delegates unveiled a modernized EDP logo, symbolizing the party’s evolution while staying true to its core values.
6. Debating Europe’s Future:
The Congress concluded with a dynamic debate on the future of the EDP and the EU, with contributions from EDP MEPs and delegates of member parties.
"The Centre is the Answer": Exploring the Relevance of Centrist Politics
After the Congress, the focus shifted to the conference “The Centre is the Answer,” where thought leaders, political figures, and EDP founders reflected on the challenges and opportunities for centrism in a polarized world.
Exploring the EDP’s Legacy and Vision
The conference began with reflections on the origins and significance of the EDP. Francesco Rutelli, a founding member of the party, shared his perspective on the motivations behind the party’s creation and its enduring importance in European politics.
Andoni Ortuzar, President of the PNV, spoke about the EDP’s growth and the vital role it plays in promoting unity and democracy in a complex political landscape. Maud Gatel, secretary of the Mouvement Démocrate, continued the panel with an interesting speech on how member parties in the EDP can shape their policies and be part of their EU future. Alice-Bernard Montini, President of the Young Democrats for Europe (YDE), added insights into the party’s appeal to younger generations and their engagement in its vision.
The session also included a brief but impactful interview with Maxime Prévot, President of Les Engagés, the EDP’s newest Belgian member party, who reflected on his party’s alignment with the EDP’s centrist values and goals. Together, these voices highlighted the EDP’s rich history, its current contributions, and the aspirations guiding its future.
A Call for Centrist Resilience
Political strategist Yair Zivan delivered the keynote speech, “The Centre Must Hold,” emphasizing the critical role of centrist politics in addressing Europe’s political challenges and resisting extremism.
Tackling Democracy Challenges Globally
A major session at the conference addressed the pressing challenges to democracy around the world. Will Marshall, President of the Progressive Policy Institute (PPI), provided an in-depth analysis of the global trends threatening democratic institutions and emphasized the need for coordinated responses.
A video address by Edmundo Gonzales, a former Venezuelan presidential candidate, offered a sobering perspective on the erosion of democratic norms in Venezuela and the resilience of those fighting for reform.
James MacCleary, MP and Europe Spokesperson for the UK Liberal Democrats, discussed the importance of strengthening Europe’s democratic values in light of rising populism and extremism.
Hungarian priest and democracy advocate Gabor Ivanyi shared a unique perspective on the role of civil society in defending human rights and countering authoritarianism. These contributions painted a vivid picture of the struggles and hopes for democracy worldwide.
Closing the Day with Unity and Determination
The conference concluded with inspiring speeches by Sandro Gozi, EDP Secretary General, and François Bayrou, EDP President, who reaffirmed the centrality of the EDP’s mission in addressing Europe’s pressing challenges and defending democratic values.
Building the future of centrist politics
Building the future of centrist politics
The Congress and Conference at Autoworld Brussels underscored the EDP’s commitment to shaping Europe’s future. With new leadership, policies, and a renewed visual identity, the EDP is poised to champion centrist values and contribute to a more democratic and united Europe. The message from the day was clear: The centre is the answer for a resilient, fair, and sustainable future.
