Europe at a Crossroads
French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a stark warning in a major speech on the European Union (EU) at Sorbonne University in Paris. He emphasized that Europe must escape its self-imposed naivety or risk dying in a changing world. Macron urged European leaders to make crucial decisions now to ensure the survival of the EU.
The Need for Strategic Action
Macron highlighted the challenges facing Europe, including hostility from Russia, lack of interest from the US, and competition from China. He argued that Europe risked being marginalized and relegated if it did not take decisive action. Macron called for massive strategic decisions on defense and the economy, advocating for a dose of protectionism to protect European interests.
Building a Stronger Europe
To counter the changing global landscape, Macron proposed the creation of a credible independent defense for Europe. He emphasized the importance of European armies sharing common goals and called for the establishment of a European military academy. Macron also stressed the need for Europe to fight for its own interests in international commerce, as both China and the US no longer respect the rules.
Reconnecting with European Values
Macron expressed concern about Europe’s demoralization and the risk of self-destruction. He urged Europeans to reconnect with the values that make the continent unique. Macron also highlighted the dangers of online disinformation, violence, and pornography, proposing a 15-year age threshold for social media access to protect children. In conclusion, Macron’s speech served as a wake-up call for Europe. It emphasized the need for Europe to take decisive action to protect its interests and ensure its survival in a changing world. The speech also positioned France at the center of the European debate, highlighting Macron’s leadership in the EU. However, it also highlighted the dependence of Macron’s Renaissance party on his interventions to make an impact.
