Europe’s future
It is again Europe Day, and we commemorate the Schuman Declaration, a proposal put forward by French foreign minister Robert Schuman 74 years ago (on 9 May 1950). His vision to pool the coal and steel production in continental Western Europe under joint control led to the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), the first step towards today’s “European Union”.
In one month’s time, on 9 June 2024, European citizens will have casted their votes in the elections for the European Parliament. The results will shape EU policymaking in the five years to come.
In 1950, the European nations were still recovering from the devastations of World War II. These days, the Europeans are struggling with challenges of a different kind: geopolitical fragmentation, the war in Ukraine, new threats to economic growth, environmental and climate crises, the energy transition, the digital transition and threats to democracy.
We live in a period of deep uncertainty. And Europe will have to find answers in a world that becomes more fluid and less predictable. We need to build resilience, cooperate internationally where possible, act autonomously where necessary, and build a sustainable future. Without overstressing our economy and without creating social fragmentation.
We need optimism, and an active but always balanced management of the challenges ahead. Europe will need to stand together, now and in the future. It is also our responsibility.
Have a great Europe Day.
Please note: This blog is for general information purposes only and in no way constitutes legal advice from Binder Grösswang Rechtsanwälte GmbH. The blog cannot replace individual legal advice. Binder Grösswang Rechtsanwälte GmbH accepts no liability of any kind for the content and accuracy of the blog.