The European Democratic Party participated with enthusiasm and conviction in the first congress of the Movement for Democracy in Athens, an event that strongly marked the official launch of the new Greek political formation led by Stefanos Kasselakis. Our presence was represented at the highest level: our Secretary General Sandro Gozi delivered a powerful and clear speech in plenary; alongside him, an Italian delegation led by Senator Enrico Borghi, Vice President of Italia Viva, and a French delegation with Frédéric Petit, Member of the Assemblée nationale elected abroad and Deputy Secretary General of the EDP. A team that demonstrated, through action, the EDP’s concrete support for all pro-European forces fighting for transparency, justice and democratic renewal in their countries.
In his speech, Gozi denounced the serious institutional crisis that Greece is experiencing: “Corruption, abuse of power, illegal surveillance, suppression of press freedom… these are clear signs that Greek democracy is at risk,” he said. “The Movement for Democracy is today the voice of resistance, the hope for a different kind of politics. We stand with them.” Referring to the Tempi train tragedy, Gozi called it a “state disgrace” and strongly condemned the culture of cover-up and impunity. “If you’re not strong enough to sit at the table, you’ll end up on the menu – and we refuse to see Europe become prey to Trump or Xi Jinping,” he concluded. In his own speech, Kasselakis delivered a clear and inspiring message: “I want to show that Europe is the solution. I didn’t start this movement as a protest, but to build something.” A message that was warmly welcomed by Renew Europe president Valérie Hayer, who called Kasselakis “crazy in a good way – brave and visionary.”
The atmosphere at the congress was charged with positive energy: thousands of participants from all over Greece filled the venue with enthusiasm and determination. Our stand was very well visited: many people stopped to read the informative materials in Greek and to speak with the team, showing strong interest in our political project. The European Democratic Party felt at home, sharing the founding values of the Movement: transparency, dignity, justice, reform. We are confident that the collaboration launched these days with the Movement for Democracy will bear important fruits, in the name of a Europe that listens, includes and truly changes things. With citizens, for citizens.
