"NextGen Europa": from Ludwigsburg ideas for a Strong, Innovative and Democratic Europe
Ludwigsburg, Germany. What will Europe look like in 2050? What role will artificial intelligence, innovation and economic strength play? And how can democracy inspire young people once again? These were the key questions discussed by participants from across Germany at the EDP Workshop "NextGen Europa" in Ludwigsburg, together with EDP Executive Vice President and Member of the European Parliament Engin Eroglu and European Democratic Party (EDP) Deputy Secretary General Frédéric Petit. Through their keynote speeches, they initiated important discussions on democracy, the economy, artificial intelligence and Europe's future.
The aim of the workshop was to bring together committed Europeans, exchange new perspectives and jointly develop concrete ideas for the future of European politics. In several working groups, participants discussed how Europe can strengthen its competitiveness, further develop its democratic institutions and seize the opportunities created by technological transformation.
A central focus of the workshop was on artificial intelligence, digitalisation and economic innovation. Participants explored how Europe can strengthen its digital sovereignty, promote European AI solutions and remain competitive in the global technological race. At the same time, it became clear that political education, media literacy and stronger citizen participation remain essential pillars of a vibrant democracy.
In his keynote address, Engin Eroglu stressed that Europe is in the midst of a historic transformation—from the industrial age to the age of artificial intelligence.
"The decisive question for the coming years is how we secure our prosperity," Eroglu emphasized.
He argued that Europe must promote innovation, strengthen its industrial base and become significantly more competitive in robotics and artificial intelligence. Economic success, entrepreneurship and technological progress are the foundation of jobs, social cohesion and Europe's long-term prosperity. At the same time, Eroglu warned against framing the future solely in terms of sacrifice and fear. Europe, he said, needs greater confidence, determination and the courage to embrace new opportunities.
Frédéric Petit encouraged participants to reflect on what kind of Europe today's families and their children should inherit by 2050. Peace, freedom and prosperity, he noted, should never be taken for granted and must continually be defended. Democracy can only thrive when citizens take responsibility and remain engaged in dialogue. Young people, in particular, play a crucial role in preserving democratic values and countering political polarisation.
The role of the next generation was another key topic throughout the workshop. Participants agreed that young people must be inspired at an early stage to engage with democracy, innovation and Europe. The challenges posed by disinformation and digital media were also discussed extensively. Education and the responsible use of artificial intelligence will increasingly determine Europe's competitiveness and social cohesion in the years ahead.
The workshop highlighted Europe's enormous economic, technological and societal potential. Unlocking this potential will require innovation, economic strength, democratic responsibility and open dialogue across borders.
With initiatives such as the EDP Workshop "NextGen Europa", the European Democratic Party and its Vice President Engin Eroglu are actively promoting dialogue among committed Europeans. Their goal is to strengthen networks across Europe, bring together new ideas and develop practical solutions for the future of the European Union—guided by optimism, innovation and a firm commitment to democracy, freedom and prosperity.
