Future nostalgia: Europe’s unfinished song – European Council on Foreign Relations
Interview excerpts
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01
“Europe leaves me completely indifferent.”
Some people say that Europe’s future is in danger. When you hear that, what is your reaction?
– Europe leaves me completely indifferent.
I understand. What has led you to feel so detached from Europe?
– Prices have risen sharply, but that’s globalisation.
What would you like Europe to look like in 20 years?
– I’ll be dead in 20 years and after me, the flood.A European from <a href="https://jiuniversity.com/where-in-france-ranks-as-the-best-region-to-retire-to/” title=”Where in France ranks as the best region to retire to”>France, born in the 1970s
Disconnected
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02
“Go back to sleep; things are going downhill.”
Imagine you had a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has just woken up. This friend asks you: “What does Europe look like these days?”. How would you describe today’s Europe – what would you tell them about it?
– I’d say he should go back to sleep, things are going downhill.
That sounds rather disheartening. In your opinion, what has deteriorated the most over the past few years?
– The crime rate, the insecure borders, the national debt for foreign countries and for migrants, the danger of war, the general rise in prices and so on and so forth….A European from Germany, born in the 1950s
Negative
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03
“Europe is doing reasonably well. It’s trying to strengthen itself and be more independent from the USA.”
Imagine that your friend, who fell asleep five years ago, has just woken up. This friend asks you: “How is Europe doing these days?”. How would you describe today’s Europe — how would you answer?
– Europe is doing reasonably well, it’s trying to strengthen itself and be more independent from the USA.
I see. You’re saying that Europe is trying to be more independent from the USA — could you tell me in what ways you see this change compared to five years ago?
– Strengthening armed forces, ideas like EU loans for defence.
Thank you. Let’s move on — what do you think are the biggest challenges facing Europe today?
– Remaining independent from the USA, Russia and China.
I understand, independence from the great powers is a key challenge for you. In your view, how is Europe coping with these challenges?
– Quite well.A European from Poland, born in the 1980s
Positive
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04
“Crises make you stronger, and I think that applies to Europe as well. Investment in defence is increasing again. The crises have revealed the weak points, and we can start working on them.”
You’re describing a sequence of crises – pandemic, inflation, war. Would you say that Europe is in a worse position today than it was five years ago, or do you also see positive developments?
– I think it’s not worse but different. Crises make you stronger, and I think that applies to Europe as well. Investment in defence is increasing again. The crises have revealed the weak points, and we can start working on them.
That’s an interesting perspective – crises as an opportunity for strengthening. What do you think are the greatest challenges facing Europe today?
– It’s important to invest in defence and focus on Europe. We shouldn’t see America as the universal partner anymore; we should be more self-confident. Europe is also a power and stronger than people think. We just need everyone to work together.A European from Germany, born in the 1960s
Positive
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05
“Leaders of the countries do what suits their own country; they don’t see unity and don’t want it.”
Let’s imagine you have a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has just woken up. This friend asks you: ‘How is Europe doing at the moment?’ How would you describe Europe today — what would you tell them?
– It’s doing badly, the different countries are not united, we’re facing a war on our doorstep.
I understand. You mention a lack of unity between countries and war as defining elements. Would you say the situation has deteriorated compared to five years ago, or was it already the case back then?
– There has been a deterioration, we didn’t have perfect unity back then, but it was better than today when the war in Ukraine is ongoing and not everyone agrees on helping them.
That’s clear, thank you. What are, in your view, the greatest challenges Europe is facing today?
– Unity above all.
(…)
How do you think Europe is coping with these challenges?
– Not well at all.
In your view, what are the main reasons for that?
– The leaders of the countries do what suits their own country, they don’t see unity and don’t want it.A European from France, born in the 1960s
Uncertain
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06
“No”
Can you recall a moment when you were proud of Europe or proud to be European?
– I’m not proud of the privilege of being born here.
That sounds like a deliberate stance. What’s behind that – why do you find pride problematic in this context?
– I didn’t do anything for it and so I can’t be proud of it.
I understand. Was there nonetheless a moment when you perceived Europe or being European positively – perhaps admiration or relief rather than pride?
– I’m regularly relieved that I live in Europe. It’s not perfect and some things are going in the wrong direction at the moment, but no region in the world is safer, freer and more democratic.
Was there a moment when you were disappointed in Europe or even ashamed to be European?
– The treatment of refugees.A European from Germany, born in the 1990s
Uncertain
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07
“Like Poland is now.”
Some people say that Europe’s future is under threat. How do you react when you hear that?
– I don’t believe that.
What makes you an optimist on this matter?
– Innate optimism.
And how would you like Europe to look in 20 years’ time?
– Like Poland is now.A European from Poland, born in the 1950s
Uncertain
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08
“Fundamentally, the EU is still a good story,”
Imagine you had a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has only just woken up. This friend asks you: “What does Europe look like these days?”. How would you describe today’s Europe to them – what would you tell them about it?
– Unfortunately, a lot has changed for the worse. There has been war in Ukraine for years now, an aggressive war by Russia. Europe has sided with Ukraine, but the situation has been at a standstill for years and a great deal of money is being spent on Ukraine.
That sounds like a very serious development you’re describing. When you say that a lot has changed for the worse – are there things besides the war that you would tell your friend about?
– Fundamentally, the EU is still a good story; the countries stand by one another, the countries make an effort for each other, and after Orbán’s electoral defeat, better cooperation with Hungary is now possible again.A European from Germany, born in the 1970s
Positive
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09
“It still has a bright future ahead of it,”
Some people say that the future of Europe is in danger. When you hear that, what is your reaction?
– They are right in one respect, when you see a strong rise in Euroscepticism, but you have to remember that even Meloni, even the Pole, even Orbán when he was in power did not leave Europe and the British are beginning to regret it, so no, it still has a bright future ahead of it, especially since it remains a model for certain countries that would like to join it like Ukraine. And yes, it is losing weight on the international stage, but that doesn’t mean it will disappear, because in reality the strength of European countries resides in their unity.A European from France, born in the 2000s
Positive
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10
“a shared awareness from the population”
What do you see as the greatest challenges Europe is facing today?
– Europe’s security.
Understandable. How do you think Europe is handling these challenges?
– Quite well.
What do you think are the main reasons for that?
– A sense of urgency, the realisation that we must stand up for ourselves.
Interesting. Who or what do you think contributes most to that — is it particular countries, leaders, or something else?
– A shared awareness from the population.A European from the Netherlands, born in the 1980s
Positive
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11
“today many things are more explicit … so I’d say [Europe has become] more unstable but more honest compared to before.”
Imagine you have a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has just woken up. That friend asks you: “What is Europe like today?”. How would you describe Europe today — what would you tell them?
– Chaotic but with great potential. Lots of tension, lots of absurd news, but also lots of innovation and people trying to improve things. It seems like a period of constant transition.
I see, a very vivid picture. Compared to five years ago, would you say this sense of transition has worsened, improved, or was it already like this?
– Five years ago, I think there was more of an illusion of stability. Today many things are more explicit… wars, economic crises… so the sense of transition is felt more acutely. At the same time, though, I see more attention to issues like mental health, more freedom to reinvent oneself… so I’d say more unstable but more honest compared to before.A European from Italy, born in the 1990s
Positive
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12
“It’s a very serious crisis, but I think that with wise policymaking [the danger] can be avoided,”
Some people say that Europe’s future is under threat. How do you react when you hear that?
– It seems to me that for now it’s not under threat. It’s a very serious crisis, but I think that with wise policy-making it can be averted.
What makes you believe, despite these crises, that Europe will manage?
– I think it’s people who make Europe manage, not so much the governments of those countries. Hungary managed it, we managed it, so why shouldn’t others manage it?A European from Poland, born in 1990s
Positive
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13
“doubts about the pace, not the direction”
Some people say that Europe’s future is in danger. How do you react when you hear that?
– Somewhat exaggerated.
Why do you feel that it’s somewhat exaggerated?
– We have it in our own hands
How do you hope Europe will look in 20 years’ time?
– More integrated, more strength and coordination.
Do you think that hope will become reality, or do you have doubts about it?
– Doubts about the pace, not the direction.A European from the Netherlands, born in the 1980s
Positive
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14
“A community run by people who have only thought about their own well-being until now; they’ve ruined our lives with surreal green ideologies, financing unjust wars, opening up to immigration that is destroying European identity and that of member states. [They are] unprepared on the military front [and] divided as peoples both in terms of collective thinking and economically.”
Imagine you have a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has just woken up. That friend asks you: “What is Europe like today?”. How would you describe Europe today — what would you tell them?
– A community run by people who have only thought about their own wellbeing until now, they’ve ruined our lives with surreal green ideologies, financing unjust wars, opening up to immigration that is destroying European identity and that of member states, unprepared on the military front, divided as peoples both in terms of collective thinking and economically. It has created energy crises despite having the possibility of obtaining oil and gas at reasonable prices because they’ve labelled whoever was selling it to them as a sworn enemy!
Thank you for such a direct and articulate response. A sense of profound frustration towards European management over recent years comes through clearly. I’d like to ask you: compared to five years ago, do you think the situation has worsened, or did these problems already exist and have simply become more acute?
– Some already existed, others have emerged and worsened over the last five years.A European from Italy, born in the 1980s
Negative
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15
“The EU is pushing itself literally everywhere, even into areas where it was never granted any competencies,”
Imagine that your friend, who fell asleep five years ago, has just woken up. This friend asks you: “How is Europe doing these days?”. How would you describe today’s Europe — how would you answer?
– Dramatically – the EU is pushing itself literally everywhere, even into areas where it was never granted any competencies. It tries to influence democratic elections and imposes its own vision.
(…)
What do you think are the main reasons for this state of affairs?
– Detachment from reality of European elites, utopian visions of bureaucrats, not caring about the fate of worse-off citizens.
(…)
What do you think should happen now for Europe to deal more effectively with these challenges?
– A change at the top of power to people with more sensible thinking.A European from Poland, born in 1980s
Negative
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16
“I feel sad for what once was a great place,”
Some people say that Europe’s future is in danger. When you hear that, how do you react?
– I feel sad for what once was a great place it has been hijacked by ridiculous policy makers which has resulted in Europe increasingly becoming a weaker voice on the world stage which can’t augur well for the future of Western society.
What is it about the weakening of that voice that concerns you most for Western society?
– The world is increasingly divided into world powers Russia, China and the USA who have strong views and move ahead with them for the benefit of their own countries in their view whereas Europe appears increasingly divided within itself and weak.A European from the UK, born in the 1960s
Negative
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17
“pleased about it.”
Some people say that Europe’s future is under threat. How do you react when you hear that?
– I agree and I’m pleased about it.
What makes you pleased about such a prospect?
– I’m in favour of leaving the European Union.
And how would you like Europe to look in 20 years’ time?
– So that it doesn’t exist.A European from Poland, born in 1980s
Negative
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18
“of war.”
Some people say that Europe’s future is in danger. When you hear that said, how do you react?
– I’m afraid.
What frightens you in particular when you think about Europe’s future?
– Of a war.
How do you hope Europe will be in 20 years?
– Will it still exist?A European from Italy, born in the 1980s
Negative
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19
“We lived much better when the European Union didn’t exist,”
What does it mean to you, personally, to be European?
– It’s somewhat, I would say, an obligation at the time of votes. People didn’t know. We asked ourselves a lot of questions. We were told it would be better, that we depended somewhat on all these countries. But I think we lived much better when the European Union didn’t exist.
That’s a very interesting perspective. Do you remember a moment when you felt proud of Europe or of being European?
– I have always felt proud to be French and when the European Union was proposed, I was proud at the beginning, but I think everyone was very disappointed.
(…)
What caused this disappointment in your view — is there a specific moment or particular situation that marked you?
– Everything was turned upside down, life became very difficult, many things became less easy, less accessible. It’s becoming very complicated to live, to survive.A European from France, born in the 1950s
Negative
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20
“Europe is doing badly, the different countries are not united, and we are facing a war on our doorstep,”
Let’s imagine you have a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has just woken up. This friend asks you: ‘How is Europe doing at the moment?’ How would you describe Europe today — what would you tell them?
– It’s doing badly, the different countries are not united, we’re facing a war on our doorstep.
I understand. You mention a lack of unity between countries and war as defining elements. Would you say the situation has deteriorated compared to five years ago, or was it already the case back then?
– There has been a deterioration, we didn’t have perfect unity back then, but it was better than today when the war in Ukraine is ongoing and not everyone agrees on helping them.
That’s clear, thank you. What are, in your view, the greatest challenges Europe is facing today?
– Unity above all.
(…)
How do you think Europe is coping with these challenges?
– Not well at all.
In your view, what are the main reasons for that?
– The leaders of the countries do what suits their own country, they don’t see unity and don’t want it.A European from France, born in the 1960s
Uncertain
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21
“lack of a common direction, disagreement amongst member states, poor ideas being implemented by force.”
Comparing this Europe to the one from five years ago, do you see it as being in a worse place, or simply a different one?
– In a worse place, we have more problems.
I understand. Let’s move on — what do you think are the greatest challenges facing Europe today?
– Climate, energy, economy and defence.
I understand. In your view, how is Europe coping with these challenges?
– Not very well.
What do you think are the main reasons for this state of affairs?
– Lack of a common direction, disagreement amongst member states, poor ideas being implemented by force.A European from Poland, born in 1990s
Uncertain
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22
“lack of imagination among politicians, the habit that Europe doesn’t need to take responsibility for itself because someone will always save us.”
We live in times of serious global tensions – wars, crises and changes in relations with countries like the United States. What role, in your view, does Europe play in this context?
– Europe is like a sleepy observer who is terribly slowly stirring from lethargy.
An apt comparison. What do you think makes Europe so slow in responding to these global tensions?
– Bureaucracy, lack of imagination among politicians, the habit that Europe doesn’t need to take responsibility for itself because someone will always save us.
And what role would you like Europe to play?
– Strong, stable, self-sufficient.A European from Poland, born in 1980s
Uncertain
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23
“I have great doubts about it.”
Some voices say that the future of Europe is in danger. How do you react when you hear that?
– I am very concerned about it.
What exactly causes you the greatest concern?
– A relapse into national thinking is a danger to peace and Europe’s strength through joint action would be lost.
And if you could choose, what should Europe look like in 20 years?
– A solid, united Union.
Do you believe that this vision of a united Union is realistically achievable in the next 20 years?
– I have great doubts about that.A European from Germany, born in the 1960s
Uncertain
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24
“more united, more efficient [Europe], able to harness the strength of its single market and with a long-term vision for the future.”
Some people say that the future of Europe is in danger. When you hear that said, how do you react?
– I feel regretful.
I see. Where does this regret mainly come from — from fear of losing something concrete, or from something deeper?
– From the fear of returning to a fragmented and divided world even more than it already is, with little vision for common interests.
How do you hope Europe will be in 20 years?
– More united, more efficient, able to harness the strength of its single market and with a long-term vision for the future.
Do you think these hopes have a good chance of coming true, or does it seem like a difficult scenario to achieve?
– No, I don’t think it will be possible.A European from Italy, born in the 1990s
Uncertain
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25
“fifty-fifty”
Some people say that the future of Europe is in danger. How do you react when you hear that?
– I understand that and I’m worried too.
Where does that worry come from most — what concerns you most about Europe’s future?
– That we lose our norms and values.
Clear. And finally: how do you hope Europe will look in 20 years’ time?
– Green, peaceful and safe.
That’s a lovely picture. Do you think that hope can also become reality — how realistic do you think that is?
– 50/50.A European from the Netherlands, born in the 1990s
Uncertain
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26
“I don’t ask myself all these political questions,”
Imagine you had a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has just woken up. This friend asks you: ‘How is Europe doing at the moment?’ How would you describe Europe today — what would you tell them?
– I wouldn’t really know what to tell them because I’m not interested in these geopolitical questions.
(…)
So you think that remaining neutral would be the best approach — could you tell me a bit more about why?
– But I haven’t a clue, honestly, I don’t ask myself all these political questions.A European from France, born in the 1990s
Disconnected
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27
“Mate. You’ve only just woken up and that’s the first question you’re asking?”
Imagine that your friend, who fell asleep five years ago, has just woken up. This friend asks you: “How is Europe doing these days?”. How would you describe today’s Europe — how would you answer?
– Mate. You’ve only just woken up and that’s the first question you’re asking?
Haha, I understand that’s quite a surprising question as a greeting! But that’s precisely the point — imagine your friend really doesn’t know what’s been happening over the last five years. What would you tell him about how Europe looks today?
– I’d say not much has changed and he might as well go back to sleep.A European from Poland, born in 1980s
Disconnected
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28
“I just live my life the way I want, and Europe or whatever doesn’t interest me.”
Imagine you have a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has just woken up. This person asks you: “How are things in Europe these days?” How would you describe today’s Europe — what would you tell them?
– No idea because I really don’t care about it at all.
I understand, not everyone follows European news as closely. But if you had to say something — even if it’s just a feeling or an impression — what would you say about how things stand with Europe now?
– I just go on holiday in Europe.
(…)
Some people say that Europe’s future is in danger. How do you react when you hear that?
– I don’t, because it doesn’t interest me.
Can you say why it doesn’t interest you? What is it that makes Europe so irrelevant to you?
– Because I just live my life the way I want, and Europe or whatever doesn’t interest me.A European from the Netherlands, born in the 1990s
Disconnected
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29
“The first time I drank a milkshake with a paper straw at McDonald’s, it was a disgusting experience.”
Was there a moment when you were disappointed in Europe or even ashamed to be European?
– Yes, when pointless laws were passed, such as paper straws, attaching lids to bottles.
I understand – you found this type of regulation pointless and it triggered disappointment. What’s behind that for you – is it more frustration about priorities, or does it go deeper than that?
– When you consider that somewhere in Europe there are hundreds of people sitting around, each probably earning several hundred thousand euros a year, discussing that straws should be made of paper. Then this waste of resources bothers me. And the first time I drank a milkshake with a paper straw at McDonald’s, it was a disgusting experience because the paper dissolved very quickly.A European from Germany, born in the 1990s
Negative
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30
“I would like Europe to behave less fearfully.”
We live in a time of great global tensions — wars, crises and changes in relations with countries like the United States. What role do you think Europe plays in this context?
– Like someone watching their big brother, the US, change course. It’s Europe’s role to reposition itself in the world as the guardian of democracy and equality.
That’s a lovely description. You say Europe needs to reposition itself — do you think Europe is already taking steps in that direction, or is it still falling short?
– I think some steps have been taken because of recent US behaviour, but much more needs to be done.
And what role would you like Europe to play?
– I would like Europe to behave less fearfully, more as a unity and be open to more opportunities and relations with democratic countries outside Europe.A European from the Netherlands, born in the 2000s
Uncertain
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31
“EU institutions are too bureaucratic and bloated, and the member states don’t want to give up any responsibility or authority whatsoever.”
In your opinion, what are the greatest challenges facing Europe today?
– To become independent from the United States and to bring critical infrastructure, raw materials, and production back to the continent rather than leaving them to China.
Those are important points – strategic independence and economic sovereignty. Let’s move on to the next question: How do you assess Europe’s handling of these challenges?
– Not very well.
In your opinion, what are the main reasons for that?
– Because the bureaucratic apparatus is far too large and cumbersome. It takes far too long for a decision to be made. Some problems need to be implemented quickly, but by the time everything has gone through all the levels and member states, it’s usually already too late.A European from Germany, born in the 1980s
Uncertain
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32
“the culture of operation of the states with the greatest influence in the EU.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing Europe today?
– Unification of law, decision-making and strategy
I understand, you mean the need for greater coherence in Europe’s actions. In your view, how is Europe coping with these challenges?
– Not very well
What do you think are the main reasons for this state of affairs?
– Too much bureaucracy and dilution of decision-making power in Europe. The EU fundamentally discusses a lot but does little.
I understand — lots of talk, little action. Do you think the responsibility for this state of affairs lies more with EU institutions, individual member states, or something else?
– I think it might stem from the culture of operation of the states with the greatest influence in the EU.A European from Poland, born in 2000s
Uncertain
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33
“Everything takes far too long. By the time Europe reaches agreements, years have passed or nothing happens because one EU country is against it.”
In your opinion, what are the greatest challenges facing Europe today?
– The withdrawal of the USA from Europe under Trump. Whether that will change again after Trump is very much dependent on the next US election. And of course, climate change as well.
Thank you for your answer. How do you assess Europe’s handling of these challenges?
– Not very well
In your opinion, what are the main reasons for that?
– Everything takes far too long. By the time Europe reaches agreements, years have passed or nothing happens because one EU country is against it. Something needs to change there.
I see. And who or what do you see as primarily responsible for these blockages – individual countries, EU institutions, or something else?
– The requirement for unanimity would need to be changed in favour of, for example, a 3/4 majority.A European from Germany, born in the 1970s
Uncertain
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34
“Lengthy consultations [and] little or slow decision-making,”
What do you see as the greatest challenges Europe is facing today?
– Migrants, Trump in power, and the wars in Ukraine and Iran
Thank you. How do you think Europe is handling these challenges?
– Not very well
What do you think are the main reasons for that?
– Lengthy consultations, little or slow decision-making
That makes sense. And who do you think is responsible for that slow decision-making — is it the European institutions, the member states, or something else?
– The member statesA European from the Netherlands, born in the 1970s
Uncertain
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35
“If a simple approval procedure in Europe takes years and sometimes decades, nobody can compete with such an industry-friendly society as in the USA, China or India.”
What do you think are the main reasons for that?
– When the EU was founded, no clear exit and exclusion mechanisms were planned. That’s taking its revenge today. In industry, people have always looked for cheaper production locations. That’s fine too. But in the meantime we’ve given up all production, including product development. The people in the producing countries no longer need us. Another reason for lack of competitiveness is the excessive bureaucracy in the EU. In the USA it’s very much easier to bring an idea to market and find funding for it. If, for example, a simple approval procedure in Europe takes years and sometimes decades, nobody can compete with such an industry-friendly society as in the USA, China or India.
You’re talking about structural problems – missing exit rules, lost production competence and crippling bureaucracy. Do you see particular actors as especially responsible – in other words, who do you think bears responsibility for this development?
– That’s a difficult question. With minimal bureaucracy and fewer rules, you certainly invite abuse and recklessness. Data and environmental protection, as it exists in Europe, has its justification – however, the extent of these regulations far exceeds the original intention. The main responsibility lies with politicians and interest groups who have pushed through certain ideologies too strongly, without regard for the consequences.A European from Germany, born in the 1960s
Uncertain
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36
“not really able to adapt quickly enough and is being massively overtaken technologically by Asia and the USA.”
magine you had a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has just woken up. This friend asks you: “What does Europe look like these days?”. How would you describe today’s Europe to them – what would you tell them about it?
– It’s in an odd in-between state between the old and a new world order. However, due to all the regulation and bureaucratic hurdles, it’s currently not really able to adapt quickly enough and is being massively overtaken technologically by Asia and the USA.
That’s an interesting image – this in-between state where Europe is essentially caught between two worlds. Would you say that’s got worse compared to five years ago, or was it already like that back then?
– It was probably already becoming apparent, but it’s definitely got worse.A European from Germany, born in 1990s
Uncertain
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37
“feels slow”
What do you see as the biggest challenges facing Europe today?
– That’s an interesting question and there are many of them. I say: a) AI safety: how to regulate AI whilst also allowing it to foster growth, b) energy and oil: how can Europe lower their reliance on other countries for energy?, c) nationalisms: how can Europe increase a sense of ‘europeanism’ across Europe?
Those are three really distinct but interconnected challenges. Thank you for laying them out so clearly.How do you feel Europe is dealing with these challenges?
– Not very well.
What do you think are the main reasons for that?
– Mainly the fact that Europe feels…slow.
Slow in what sense — is it the institutions themselves, the political leadership, or something else driving that?
– A combination of both but for sure political leadership struggling to show decisiveness.A European from the UK, born in the 1990s
Uncertain
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38
“Russia attacks Ukraine; Russia is the villain. Israel attacks Palestine, but they’re terrorists. It doesn’t make sense.”
And a moment when you felt disappointed, or even ashamed, of Europe or of being European?
– The non-recognition of Palestine, and the (barely veiled) statements in favour of Israel.
That’s a strong position. What particularly struck you in this situation — the silence of the institutions, or the stances taken by certain countries in particular?
– First the silence. Then the hypocrisy. Russia attacks Ukraine, Russia is the villain. Israel attacks Palestine, but they’re terrorists. It doesn’t make sense.A European from France, born in the 1990s
Uncertain
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39
“Every time the EU capitulates, it shows … we don’t want to do anything and would rather cling to the old status quo.”
Was there a moment when you were disappointed in Europe or even ashamed to be European?
– Terribly ashamed. I always feel a bit ashamed when we cower before the USA again. Like when there were these little trade wars over US tariffs with the USA, and von der Leyen and the EU presidency just caved in to the USA and simply went along with everything, as long as Donald Trump would stop complaining. I found that really embarrassing personally, that we capitulated so hard.
Why does this capitulation affect you so personally – what’s behind it?
– Well, because it simply shows again that the EU is unwilling to accept changes when it comes to transatlantic relations, and that apparently it doesn’t want to be aware of what position of power it could take towards the USA if it only wanted to. Every time the EU capitulates, it really just shows again that we don’t want to do anything and would rather cling to the old status quo instead of accepting that the world is changing, that things are changing, and you have to accept that something is changing in order to be able to do something about it. Otherwise you remain in this political paralysis where nothing happens.A European from Germany, born in the 2000s
Uncertain
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40
“Letting ourselves be led by the nose by a madman,”
And a moment when you felt disappointed, or even ashamed, of Europe or of being European?
– When the president of the EU dropped her trousers, so to speak, by signing agreements with Trump on tariffs.
That’s a powerful image. What does that represent for you — a weakness of Europe, a betrayal of its values, or something else?
– A weakness of Europe. We are strong when we are united. Let’s make that known instead of letting ourselves be led by the nose by a madman.A European from France, born in the 1950s
Uncertain
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41
“Words are easy to say—actually providing real help is another matter. It requires genuine action.”
Was there a moment when you were disappointed in Europe or even ashamed to be European?
– Yes. With the paltry help for Ukraine. How many sanctions packages against Russia is it now? The thirtieth? I stopped counting at some point. This undignified theatre towards a top-class President who has held his country together for 5 years. Of course, not everything runs smoothly there. How could it? But certainly much better than many believed it would.
I understand – you find the discrepancy between many words and actual support for Ukraine shameful. In your view, what lies behind this European reluctance towards Ukraine?
– The usual hypocrisy. Words are easy to say – actually providing real help is another matter. It requires genuine action.A European from Germany, born in the 1980s
Uncertain
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42
“The EU no longer stands unreservedly behind its values. Everything becomes a compromise solution; no solution is confined to true values.”
Imagine you had a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has just woken up. This friend asks you: “What does Europe look like these days?”. How would you describe today’s Europe – what would you tell them about it?
– It looks worse than it did back then in Europe. On a political level, there’s been a shift to the right, the EU is no more united and Europe is perceived more negatively. Militarily, the threat from Russia has become stronger again and the EU can no longer count on strong allies like the USA being on its side. The EU also no longer stands unreservedly behind its values. Everything becomes a compromise solution, no solution is confined to true values.
That sounds like a rather sobering picture. You mention that the EU no longer stands unreservedly behind its values – what exactly do you mean by that? Which values do you miss?
– For example, the values of democracy and truth. Allies like the USA violate these values, but the EU, due to a compromise solution, is unable to provide a clear counterpoint here and criticise its allies for it. This is not only the case with the USA, but also with other countries.A European from Germany, born in the 2000s
Uncertain
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43
“The USA will increasingly withdraw and Europe must be able to defend itself,”
In your opinion, what are the greatest challenges facing Europe today?
– The USA will increasingly withdraw and Europe must be able to defend itself.
(…)
Some voices say that the future of Europe is in danger. How do you react when you hear that?
– If the AfD comes to power, I’m afraid that Germany will leave the EU. That would weaken all of Europe and Germany. If these voices mean that after Ukraine other European countries will be attacked, they might be right. I think the Baltic states could be the next target once Ukraine falls
Those are serious concerns. What lies behind this fear – do you believe that Europe would not be able to defend itself in such a scenario?
– Yes, I do think that.A European from Germany, born in the 1980s
Uncertain
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44
“I’m worried about poor cooperation and that Europe is therefore less resilient to external threats—for example Russia, but also the US which wants to portray Europe as weak.”
What do you see as the greatest challenges Europe is facing today?
– Fragmentation. I’m worried about poor cooperation and that Europe is therefore less resilient to external threats. For example Russia, but also the US which wants to portray Europe as weak.
Clear. How do you think Europe is handling these challenges?
– Not very well
What do you think are the main reasons for that?
– Bureaucracy. Europe takes a long time to take countermeasures. We also consist of many different countries and so it’s difficult to form one voice.
You mention bureaucracy and the diversity of countries as causes. Who or what do you hold responsible for that — is it the European institutions themselves, the member states, or something else?
– I think ultimately the member states shape the institutions. After all, surrendering sovereignty starts with the member states.A European from the Netherlands, born in the 2000s
Uncertain
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45
“Europe is doing what it can, but it doesn’t actually have the means.”
And a moment when you felt disappointed, or even ashamed, of Europe or of being European?
– Disappointed to be European, not necessarily as a French person, more because I am French, ashamed sometimes, it’s this failure to recognise the luck we have and the way, the vehemence with which some people are never satisfied and are always ready to tear everything down, to destroy everything, when we have something, a tool around us that is actually more than good and we’re not capable of using it, ashamed to see that some people don’t want to work when we need everyone to get to work so we can make things progress in France and in Europe, ashamed when we condone what can happen during war.
You mention shame regarding war — what particularly struck you about Europe’s reaction to this?
– Well, we can talk about previous wars. France was already marked by the world wars of the early 20th century. And so people weren’t always up to the task. The shame regarding war is perhaps not being capable of doing something coherent. Perhaps because we don’t have the means. It’s not shame, it’s more at the present time, it’s more sadness than shame. Because I think Europe is doing what it can, but it doesn’t actually have the means.A European from France, born in the 1950s
Uncertain
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46
“there is often a lack of speed and unity in decision-making.”
What are, in your view, the greatest challenges that Europe must face today?
– The first one is certainly security because the war near our borders has changed the general atmosphere.
I see, the war has certainly changed a lot. Are there other challenges that come to mind, besides security?
– Yes, the economy, the rise in prices has weighed heavily on families and vulnerable people, and this creates discontent.
Thank you. How do you think Europe is tackling these challenges?
– Not very well.
What do you think are the main reasons?
– I think Europe is not tackling these challenges very well because there is often a lack of speed and unity in decision-making.A European from Italy, born in the 1960s
Uncertain
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47
“I adore Sánchez, and Macron gives me orgasms when he treats Trump badly.”
Imagine you have a friend who fell asleep five years ago and has just woken up. That friend asks you: “What is Europe like today?”. How would you describe Europe today — what would you tell them?
– The same as five years ago, whilst the world around it has changed.
Interesting. What exactly do you mean when you say that the world around it has changed, but Europe has remained the same?
– That there are a couple of wars, a President of the United States who is convinced he is God on earth… Things like that. These are things that have changed, meanwhile Europe has not become more cohesive.
(…)
What do you think should happen now for Europe to address these challenges more effectively?
– Use their brains.
(…)
Can you think of any examples of countries, institutions or political figures who are setting a positive example in this regard?
– I adore Sánchez and Macron gives me orgasms when he treats Trump badly.A European from Italy, born in the 1960s
Uncertain
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48
“Europe emerged from a tremendous crisis after the [second world] war and rose above its divisions—that’s a great reason for pride.”
Do you remember a moment when you felt proud of Europe or of being European?
– I don’t remember a single moment, but generally I feel pride in this, for example when comparing attitudes in Europe with other continents where there is greater aggression, poverty, and so on.
I see — that’s more of a general sense of pride rather than one specific moment. What is it about these comparisons with other continents that evokes pride in you, rather than, say, a sense of responsibility or concern?
– I believe that everyone is the master of their own fate. If a country doesn’t develop because of corruption among its elites and people who are destroying it themselves, then I don’t feel responsible. Europe emerged from a tremendous crisis after the war and rose above its divisions — that’s a great reason for pride.A European from Poland, born in 1990s
Uncertain
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49
“When we collectively took in refugees during the [2015] refugee crisis.”
Do you remember a moment when you were proud of Europe or proud to be European?
– To some extent. I was somewhat proud when we collectively took in refugees during the refugee crisis. In some places that quickly came to an end, but it made me happy to have helped.
That’s a moving moment. What exactly made you proud about it – was it the willingness to help itself, or rather the feeling that Europe acted together?
– Both, actually.A European from Germany, born in 1990s
Uncertain
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50
“when we supported Ukraine and restricted the USA regarding Greenland.”
Can you recall a moment when you were proud of Europe or proud to be European?
– When we supported Ukraine and restricted the USA regarding Greenland.
(…)
Was there a moment when you were disappointed in Europe or even ashamed to be European?
– When we backed down on tariffs and on the AI law.
Could you tell me a bit more about that – what particularly disappointed you in these two moments?
– The way politicians think and their capitulation in the face of consequences.A European from Germany, born in 1990s
Uncertain
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51
“I had the impression that Europe was entirely with us, the French, and I felt proud to be part of this union.”
Do you remember a moment when you felt proud of Europe or of being European?
– I am proud to be European, even if things are not always perfect.
What makes you particularly proud — is there a specific moment or event that has stayed with you?
– The events that have marked me most are the attacks in France.
I understand. How did that event make you feel proud of Europe or of being European?
– I had the impression that Europe was entirely with us, the French, and I felt proud to be part of this union.A European from France, born in 1950s
Uncertain
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52
“we had a common sense of ideals.”
Can you recall a moment when you felt proud of Europe or of being European?
– EU expansion, particularly when 10 countries joined. Our response to Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Those are both really significant moments. What was it about those events that made you feel proud — what did they represent to you?
– For the first I think the idea that Europe was welcoming to new nations that wanted to join. For the latter that we had a common sense of ideals.A European from the UK, born in the 1980s
Uncertain
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53
“solidarity and courage”
Can you recall a moment when you felt proud of Europe or of being European?
– I think recently, with the rest of Europe standing up to Trump and saying no, we will not enter into this war, I think that’s something which is, and all of Europe standing together, I think that’s been a good thing.
That sense of unity clearly resonates with you. What was it about that moment specifically that made you feel proud — was it the solidarity, the courage to stand up to a powerful figure, or something else?
– Yeah, the solidarity and the courage to stand up to a powerful figure for what, basically, doing the right thing.A European from the UK, born in the 1950s
Uncertain
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54
“for once the interests of individual countries were set aside to advance a broad-reaching, visionary and solidaristic intervention.”
Can you recall a moment when you felt proud of Europe or of being European?
– During the intermediate phases of the pandemic, when European institutions intervened with important plans to address the ongoing economic crisis and to ensure the distribution of vaccines.
I see. What struck you most about that intervention — the fact that it was swift, solidaristic, or something else?
– The fact that for once the interests of individual countries were set aside to advance a broad-reaching, visionary and solidaristic intervention.A European from Italy, born in 1990s
Uncertain
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55
“A much older Italian recalls the 1976 earthquake in Friuli and the aid received from other Europeans.”
Can you recall a moment when you felt proud of Europe or of being European?
– When there was an earthquake in Friuli, the humanitarian aid that was received.
(…)
And a moment when you felt disappointed or even embarrassed by Europe or by being European?
– The Second World War.
I understand, that’s a very heavy historical period. What strikes you most about that period in relation to Europe — the fact that the conflict couldn’t be prevented, or something else?
– The persecution of the Jews.A European from Italy, born in 1940s
Uncertain
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56
“Eurovision Song Contest.”
Can you name a specific moment or event when you felt that sense of togetherness strongly?
– During the Eurovision Song Contest or during the European Football Championship.
(…)
How do you hope Europe will look in 20 years?
– More togetherness and better communication with each other.
Do you think that hope will also become reality?
– That would be nice.
Do you think it will actually happen, or does it remain more of a wish?
– I think it will remain more of a wish.A European from the Netherlands, born in 1990s
Uncertain
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57
“perhaps the one who seems to want to do something is Sánchez.”
Can you think of any examples of countries, institutions or political figures that are setting a positive example in this regard?
– No, perhaps the one who seems to want to do something is Sánchez. As far as Italy is concerned, our government is not up to the task. I want Conte as Prime Minister.A European from Italy, born in 1960s
Uncertain
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58
“Spain. Excellent how Mr Sánchez stands up to the USA,”
Can you think of a country, an institution, or a political figure that is setting a good example in this regard?
– Spain. Excellent how Mr Sánchez stands up to the USA.A European from Germany, born in 1950s
Uncertain
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59
“It should have the courage to say no, as
Sánchez has already done in Spain,”Can you think of any examples of countries, institutions or political figures that are setting a positive example in this regard?
– Yes! Spain is an example to follow.
(…)
We live in an era of great global tensions — wars, crises and changes in relations with countries like the United States. What role do you think Europe is playing in this context?
– Europe at this moment is standing by watching.
I see. In your view, why has Europe adopted this passive attitude?
– Because it’s afraid of breaking away from an ally like America.
And what role would you like Europe to play?
– It should have the courage to say no as Sánchez has already done in Spain.A European from Italy, born in 1960s
Uncertain
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60
“The EU has disappointed me so much. But I hope that one day I’ll be able to be proud and talk about historical moments when Europe did good things for the world.”
Do you remember a moment when you felt proud of Europe or of being European?
– I don’t have a specific moment because the European Union has disappointed me so much, but I hope that one day I’ll be able to be proud and talk about historical moments when Europe did good things for the world.
That’s a touching answer. What has disappointed you most about the European Union to reach that point?
– War, inflation. They do everything for money and little for the people. That’s down to the leaders, but I hope that with new generations things will get better and we’ll be able to live in peace without hatred of others.A European from France, born in 2000s
Uncertain
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Source: ecfr.eu
Tag:Europes, future, nostalgia, song, unfinished
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