Prominent Opinions

"Facing a transformation of magnitude never seen before in the past in terms of speed and impact on its people, Europe has a duty to develop and defend its own way, a model balancing economic and social development. Only a United Europe will have the size and impact to matter in the world."

— Denis Terrien,
Chairman of the Supervisory board Grandir Group, Board member United Europe
Prominent Opinions

"At a time when populism is gaining in significance in many European countries and beyond, it is more important than ever to participate in the political process – our democracy thrives on it. My urgent appeal to you: Strengthen the reason, send a signal and go to the European elections!"

— Prof. Dr Dr Reinhard Hüttl,
CEO Helmholtz-Zentrum Potsdam
Prominent Opinions

"What is Germany without Europe? In times of increasing populism and conflicts all over the world, we need a strong, democratic Europe. A high turnout at the upcoming European election would be a strong signal for a united Europe. The world needs a strong Europe."

— Andreas Rudolph,
Chairman of the Board, GHD GesundHeits GmbH Germany
Prominent Opinions

"We can all appreciate the immense contributions of the EU concerning growth and prosperity across Europe. However, the real merit is that 500 M people live today in freedom, for whom the concept of war or conflict with each other would be unthinkable. It is imperative that we preserve this within a strong European Union."

— Dr. Michael Böhmer,
Partner, Ernst & Young GmbH
Prominent Opinions

"The European idea is fundamental for our democracy, history and values. And Europe is our only chance to maintain relevance in a world that is changing ever faster. Thus, we must continue to develop the European idea and concentrate on few major projects like defence, energy, mobility or aspects of digital."

— Dr. Leonhard Birnbaum, Member of the Board, E.ON SE
Prominent Opinions

"We are better together - economically, culturally and in every other way. Better together with 500 million people."

— Baroness Jay of Paddington,
Member House of Lords, Board United Europe
Prominent Opinions

"Diversity and prosperity are the basis of a united, strong and livable Europe in which all people live in peace and satisfaction. Europe needs strong regions, strong cultures and strong economies. There lies the power of a strong Europe."

— Uwe Reuter,
Chairman VHV Holding AG
Prominent Opinions

"Europe has patiently succeeded at achieving peace and unprecedented prosperity. We have built a unique area of tolerance, free trade and diversity. Yet it’s construction remains fragile and in need for our constant care, attention and love."

— Guillaume Alvarez,
Senior Vice President EMEA, Steelcase
Prominent Opinions

"I have lived more than 40 years all over the world, outside Europe. Now that I have returned, I so appreciate the integration in commercial and cultural terms that has occurred while I was away. Every day I rejoice in the “unity in diversity” that is the motto of the European Union."

— Angela Kane,
Member and Chair, Council of the United Nations University

Alumni Meeting in Helsinki: What a Year for Europe

Meeting for the first time in Helsinki, United Europe’s alumni and friends spent a fascinating evening debating Europe’s future in a year marked by so many national elections. With Emmanuel Macron leading the polls into the second round of elections in France, the group compared his young, visionary and positive message to the politics of Canada’s president Justin Trudeau. Participants concluded that Europe needs a more emotional appeal to win support for its principles of freedom, peace and democracy. In that sense, the success of the Pulse of Europe movement – which managed to bring thousands of Europeans on the streets in over 60 European cities this spring – is very hopeful.

The participants also discussed the #RomeManifesto and its vision for the future of Europe. An interesting debate ensued about the concept of a federal union. To Central Europeans like the Germans or Austrians, federalism means limiting the centre’s powers; to many other it rings of “superstate”. Yet certainly, the division of powers between the future European Union and its member states needs to be re-ordered. You can read the Rome Manifesto, a joint project by United Europe and Villa Vigoni on: www.romemanifesto.eu

After a long and intense discussion, the participants enthusiastically agreed to meet again in a few months time to continue the debate and exchange about Europe’s future.

If you are interested in attending future events in Helsinki or any of our other alumni cities, please contact us on events@united-europe.eu

We look forward to hearing from you and please also follow us on Twitter for the newest updates from United Europe: @unitedeurope_eu

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