Balkans | Ilhan Kucuk: 73 years after the Schumann Declaration, we must decide who we are

Ilhan Kucuk, Member of the European Union Parliament from Bulgaria and Leader of the European Liberals, issued the following message on the occasion of the 73rd anniversary of the Schumann Declaration: “The Schumann Declaration that laid the foundations of the European Union today) On the occasion of Europe Day” Celebration of the 73rd anniversary When we look at the progress made by the European Union, We must recognize the importance of preserving our successes as we move towards deepening integration.

Europe has always been driven by the ideal of a federation of free nations. Over the years, the European Union has embodied this dream of emerging and evolving as a postmodern entity that transcends the borders of the nation-state. However, the world was very different from the world at the end of the Cold War, and now the European Union has to follow its own path in the conditions of economic crises, epidemics, disintegration of globalization and conflicts between great powers.

Despite the difficulties, the EU must remain true to its ideals and work for the integration of the Western Balkans and Ukraine. These regions have long been riven by instability and conflict, and their accession to the European Union would signal the expansion of a peaceful and prosperous continent. Moreover, the integration of these regions will contribute to a more united and stronger Europe, better prepared to deal with the emerging threats of the twenty-first century.

However, the current structure of the European Union as a union of states faces many problems that must be resolved if it is to exist and continue to grow. The differences between economies in our monetary union and the absence of a fully integrated single market have led to reduced mobility in the ICT sector.

As global markets become less open and countries resort to protectionist policies, we need to adjust ourselves and strengthen the economic foundations of the European Union. This means trying to promote the integration of the single market, developing a single industrial policy and continuing to defend free trade. Although they can cause friction between member states, these efforts are particularly important for the European Union’s continued importance on the world stage.

We face different security threats. In addition to all this, we have to combat climate change, a problem that the European Union cannot solve alone, but which has always been at the forefront of solutions. These challenges require the EU to take a stronger stance on security and take concerted action. We can no longer afford taboo questions.

As Martin Wolf points out, the EU must decide whether it wants to be an ally, a bridge or a power. In a world deeply divided, it may need to increase its proactive role by deepening federalism and working toward a more unified political and monetary union. Although this situation may cause nationalistic reactions and create obstacles, it is particularly important for us to maintain our unity and solidarity.

Only in this way can we build a stronger and more united Europe and weather the storms ahead. The era of permanent crises has come and there is no point in pretending that a return to the world before February 24, 2022 is possible.

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