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Campaigning across Europe ahead of this year’s European elections was a reminder of what makes our Union what it is. Almost 500 million people with such disparate cultures, complex histories and differing perspectives all coming together at the same time to articulate their wish for an entire Union of 27 countries. In casting their vote they also help to build a shared European identity – all of this bound together by our rich and varied cultural tapestry. This is Europe’s greatest strength. It makes Europe more than a construct or a project. Europe is our home: unique in design and united in diversity.
From the record number of first-time voters to those who have voted in every European election, people expressed hopes and aspirations for a healthier and more prosperous future. But they also pointed to the fact that we are in an era of anxiety and uncertainty. Europeans have real doubts and concerns about the instabilities and insecurities we face – from the cost of living, housing and doing business to the way issues such as migration are handled. From our security at home to the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. They also worry that Europe is often not fast enough; that it can be either too distant or too burdensome.
All of these expectations and concerns are real, legitimate and must be responded to. For that reason, I believe it is essential that the democratic centre in Europe holds. But if that centre is to hold it must live up to the scale of the concerns and the challenges that people face in their lives. Failure to do so would fuel resentment and polarisation and leave a fertile ground for those who peddle simplistic solutions but in reality want to destabilise our societies.
This is the backdrop to what is an era of profound change – for our society and our security, our planet and our economy. The speed of change can be destabilising and, for some, can lead to a sense of loss for the world as it used to be and a worry for the world as it will be....
much more at Commission