Europe on the bridge between powers

"Europe caught between the powers – between global pressure and internal tensions. Can the continent determine its own future?"

Fernand Weimerskirch

Europe is at a critical juncture – not only at the transition between two years, but between two global realities.

On the one hand, there is the United States: a strategic partner, technologically superior, historically closely linked – but not always a reliable shield. On the other side is Russia: a neighbour that tests boundaries, uses energy policy as a weapon and keeps old tensions alive.And China: an economic giant, global influence, trade networks that challenge Europe and force decisions about dependencies.

And in the middle stands Europe – a continent that often sees itself as a bridge between worlds, but is increasingly coming under internal pressure from national egoisms and populist movements.

Many governments prefer to focus on short-term national interests rather than acting together in the long term. Populist forces are stoking fears, promoting isolationism and calling the common European project into question. At the same time, external pressure is growing – and we realise that a Europe that is divided is a Europe that is vulnerable.

Europe must decide: does it want to react passively, remain divided and be at the mercy of every power play? Or does it want to act independently, defend its interests and at the same time remain true to its values?

The reality is clear: peace, stability and sovereignty cannot be taken for granted. They must be defended every day – politically, economically and socially.

Concrete ways in which Europe can succeed

1. Common energy and climate strategies:

   Europe's investments in renewable energy sources, green infrastructure and energy storage can reduce its dependence on Russia and other autocratic states.

2. Technological sovereignty:

   Expanding its own AI research, 5G/6G networks and cloud infrastructure to become more independent from China and the US globally.

3. Strong common foreign and defence policy:

   Cooperation on military defence, cyber defence and crisis intervention creates an independent security network – independent of NATO partners.

4. Economic cohesion and social justice:

   Investments in structurally weak regions, digital infrastructure and education not only strengthen individual states, but the EU as a whole, and reduce internal populism.

5. European innovation centres:

   Research, start-ups and industrial consortia can make Europe the leading continent for sustainable technologies and high-tech products.

6. Cultural and social networking:

   Exchange programmes, joint education initiatives and citizen participation promote identification with Europe and reduce nationalist divisions.

   
   

Europe has a choice

Europe is not weak because it is under pressure. It is strong when it raises its own voice, balances national interests and European unity – and takes concrete, actionable steps.

The bridge on which Europe stands is vulnerable. But it is not unstable.It connects the past and the future, national interests and joint action, risk and responsibility.

The question is: who will cross it – national egoisms or European cohesion?Because in a global game that is becoming increasingly tough, every action determines the sovereignty, freedom and prosperity of millions of Europeans.

Europe has a choice: stand still and watch as national populism and external powers determine the direction – or muster the courage to act together, take concrete steps and build bridges that can withstand even storms.

Those who master the bridge will shape not only their own future, but the future of an entire region.