This week, the EDP addressed the very issue of freedom of expression at an event held in Germany. On 30 March in Prüm, Germany, the European Democratic Party brought together over 400 participants for a debate on freedom of expression, democracy and the need for a stronger political vision for Europe. More than 400 guests attended the event in Prüm, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, hosted by our Member of the European Parliament, Joachim Streit.
The renowned German philosopher Richard David Precht was invited as a discussion partner and guest. The title of the event, organized by the EDP: “Politics without vision. Why Europe needs big ideas again.”
Streit emphasized:
“We are living in a time in which freedom of expression is more important than ever. With this event, we want to show that a pluralistic democratic system is the foundation of a stable Europe. This is what we, as representatives and as the EDP, fight for every day.”
Precht pointed out that our democracies are facing major challenges. Democracies worldwide are currently competing with less liberal models of governance, as the desire for security continues to grow. Where excessive security can lead is visible in China, where nearly every public space is monitored by cameras and a truly “free life” is no longer possible.
For us as the EDP, it is clear: Our liberal democracies in Europe are the highest good for a free society. We are committed to protecting them and to raising awareness among people across all European countries.
