A united Europe that delivers – the perspective from European business

Seven decades of peace and stability in Europe is a historic and exceptional achievement. The European project and the construction of the European Union, which created a union among the peoples of Europe and, step by step, tied together European states with a common purpose, made this possible. During these times of geopolitical instability, economic problems, rising populism and extremism, the European Union must be the place where we look for answers and not where we lay the blame for the difficult moments we live today.

Individually, European member states are less and less significant on the world stage and, acting alone, are unable to effectively respond to the challenges at hand. But together, the EU and its member states have the means to provide common answers, show solidarity, and make a difference in the global context. The EU accounts for over 22% of world GDP, with only 7% of its population. But more than numbers, the EU stands for fundamental values of democracy, peace, human rights, freedom and equality, which must be respected and protected. European leaders must therefore show unity, vision and leadership in driving the way forward.