For over a decade now, the European Union It lives at the rhythm of constant turmoil: the eurozone crisis, the United Kingdom’s departure, the world pandemic, the war in Ukraine and, of course, Donald Trump’s terms in the United States. Each of these crises He was described as “existential” and was accompanied by bold promises of immediate reaction. But, as Bloomberg points out, European leaders often preferred to postpone decisions, leaving time to pass.
To date, the block of the 27 European Union Member States has managed to get relatively untouched by these crises. However, the situation can change: populist and nationalist movements are now gaining ground in countries much more powerful than Hungary or Slovakia.
In the long run, Europe is in danger of being found on the US and China, failing to compete worldwide.
A block paralyzed against challenges
The recent trade agreement with Washington reflects this trend: Europeans preferred the “less bad” compromise without considering serious countermeasures. The same pattern appears against Russia: Trump promises actions that are not implemented, while Europe remains inactive – although the recent entry of drones into the Polish airspace showed how serious the threat is.
According to Bloomberg, the first step in meaningful solutions is to recognize the problem. However, many officials in Brussels continue to hope for a return to “a world based on commonly accepted rules”. An illusion, according to former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, who this week warned that “governments have not understood the seriousness of the moment.”
One year after the publication of its report on Europe’s competitiveness, its recommendations remain largely unfulfilled.