Europe’s moment: taking the helm of the “free world”

For over 70 years, the United States has been the undisputed leader of what used to call itself the free world. Washington built and maintained an international order that championed democracy, open markets and security alliances such as NATO. Today, that American-led order is faltering. The United States, once a beacon of stability, is increasingly consumed by domestic polarization, democratic backsliding and geopolitical retrenchment. As Washington turns inward, the free world risks fragmentation, leaving an enormous leadership vacuum. Europe, if it chooses, has the opportunity – and responsibility – to step into this void.

 

America’s withdrawal: a crisis of democracy and credibility

The erosion of American leadership has been unfolding for years, but recent developments have accelerated the decline. The US political system is gripped by dysfunction, with institutions struggling to uphold democratic norms. The Supreme Court is increasingly partisan, voting rights are under attack and a significant portion of the electorate is drawn to autocratic figures who undermine the rule of law. Meanwhile, foreign policy oscillates unpredictably between administrations, weakening trust among allies.

 

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This internal instability affects America’s global standing. Its disengagement from international agreements, from the Iran nuclear deal to the Paris climate accord (abandoned not once but twice), signals an unreliable partner. NATO allies, long accustomed to Washington’s security umbrella, face the real possibility of an America that no longer guarantees Europe’s defense. This uncertainty was made starkly clear when Donald Trump suggested he might not defend NATO members that fail to meet agreed spending targets. Such remarks shake the very foundation of transatlantic security.

 

Europe’s potential: strength in unity

If the free world is to remain cohesive, it requires a new leader with the political stability, economic power and moral authority to uphold democratic values. Europe is the only viable candidate.

The European Union, though not without its internal challenges, stands as the world’s largest economic bloc and one of the most enduring protectors of liberal democracy. It has demonstrated a consistent – albeit admittedly not perfect – commitment to human rights, rule of law and international cooperation—principles that are increasingly under siege in various parts of the world. Europe has not only championed democratic governance within its borders but has also been at the forefront of shaping global standards in areas such as environmental policy, digital rights and ethical trade.

Moreover, the EU wields significant diplomatic influence, with an extensive network of strategic partnerships that allow it to mediate in international conflicts, broker agreements and set the agenda on pressing global issues. While economic might and diplomatic reach alone do not guarantee leadership, Europe’s ability to combine pragmatism with ethical governance makes it uniquely suited to lead the free world into a new era of stability and progress.

 

What must be done: the European awakening

To assume this role, however, Europe must first consolidate its own political house. The EU is often hindered by fragmentation, with national governments prioritizing sovereignty over collective action. The war in Ukraine has been a wake-up call, demonstrating both Europe’s potential for unity and the structural weaknesses that remain. The EU’s support for Ukraine – providing financial aid, hosting refugees and supplying military assistance – has been commendable. However, its delayed response in some areas underscores the need for faster decision-making mechanisms, particularly in defense and foreign policy.

Therefore, for Europe to take on the mantle of global leadership, it must undergo a fundamental transformation. The following steps are critical:

First, the EU must transition from an economic union to a true political federation, one that unites its member states under a single, cohesive political framework while respecting cultural and regional diversity. The current structure, which often requires unanimous decisions or prolonged negotiations among 27 sovereign nations, hampers Europe’s ability to act decisively in times of crisis. A more integrated European republic – one with a centralized government responsible for foreign policy, defense and economic and ecological strategy – would provide the agility and authority necessary to confront global challenges effectively.

A federal Europe would mean a stronger, more unified voice on the world stage. Instead of individual nations pursuing fragmented diplomatic strategies, Europe could negotiate as a single, powerful entity, ensuring its interests are represented in global affairs. This shift would also enable the EU to respond more rapidly to geopolitical threats, economic shocks and climate challenges, rather than being mired in bureaucratic inertia.

The transition to a federal system will not be without resistance, as national identities and sovereignties remain deeply embedded in the political psyche of many European citizens. However, history has shown that unity strengthens resilience, and if Europe aspires to lead the free world, it must first lead itself with greater coherence and purpose. The creation of a European republic, in which diversity can flourish, would not only safeguard democracy within its borders but also serve as a model of governance for the rest of the world.

Second, Europe can no longer rely on the US for its defense. The geopolitical landscape has shifted, and the security guarantees once taken for granted are now uncertain. A common European defense policy, backed by a well-funded and modernized European military, is no longer a matter of choice but of necessity.

Europe must establish an integrated military structure that consolidates national forces under a unified command, allowing for rapid and coordinated responses to emerging threats. This includes the development of a European defense force, capable of independent action in the face of security challenges, whether they arise from hostile state actors, terrorism, cyber warfare, or destabilization efforts from foreign powers.

 

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To achieve this, significant investment in defense capabilities is required. European nations must not only increase military spending but also streamline procurement processes, enhance interoperability between national forces, and develop a common strategic doctrine. A shared European defense industry, with coordinated research and development, would ensure technological superiority and reduce reliance on external suppliers for critical defense equipment.

Furthermore, Europe must take control of its nuclear deterrence strategy. France, as the EU’s only nuclear power, should work with other member states to establish a collective nuclear doctrine that ensures credible deterrence against external threats. Cybersecurity and space defense should also be prioritized, as modern warfare increasingly transcends traditional battlefields.

While the US has become an irritable NATO partner, Europe – together with Canada and Turkey  – must be prepared to act independently when necessary. This means the elimination of our dependency on the United States for military intelligence, coordination of existing forces and strategic assets. A self-reliant Europe would not only strengthen its own security but also solidify its position as a global power capable of shaping the international order rather than merely reacting to it.

Third, for Europe to lead effectively, it must rethink its economic philosophy. The neoliberal emphasis on free markets and competition has often prioritized short-term profits over long-term resilience, leading to economic instability and environmental degradation. Europe must embrace an economic model that values ecological balance, social wellbeing and mutual cooperation over unrestrained market forces. Policies should encourage sustainable industries, responsible consumption and a circular economy that minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency. By fostering economic models based on solidarity rather than exploitation, Europe can create a resilient economy that serves as a global standard for ethical and sustainable development.

A strong economy is the foundation of political and military power. To secure its leadership role and systematically reduce its dependency on external powers, Europe must reshore key industries and invest heavily in:

• semiconductors and microelectronics, reducing dependency on Asian suppliers by expanding domestic production through initiatives like the European Chips Act;
• renewable energy and green hydrogen, accelerating investment in wind, solar and hydrogen infrastructure to achieve energy independence;
• artificial intelligence and quantum computing, establishing European leadership in ethical AI development and next-generation computing;
• defense and aerospace, strengthening European defense capabilities with advanced military technologies and space programs;
• biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, securing supply chains for critical medicines and leading in biomedical research.

Europe must also foster a culture of innovation by increasing funding for research and development, supporting startups and incentivizing public-private partnerships that can drive breakthrough advancements. Not only by prioritizing them over non-europeans companies, but more so by (finally) arranging for a full-blown capital union, and by creating a different social ecosystem to make EU companies more competitive and resilient, because ultimately that is a key issue.

Energy independence is another crucial factor. The Russian invasion of Ukraine exposed Europe’s vulnerability to energy shocks, highlighting the need for a rapid transition to renewable energy sources and diversified energy suppliers. Massive investments in clean energy infrastructure, such as hydrogen, nuclear and solar power, will not only ensure Europe’s self-sufficiency but also position it as a global leader in sustainable development.

Furthermore, Europe must assert itself in digital sovereignty. Currently, the continent remains overly reliant on American and Chinese tech giants for cloud computing, social media and AI services. By developing a European alternative – through initiatives like GAIA-X and strengthened regulatory frameworks – Europe can safeguard its data privacy, maintain control over its digital infrastructure and set global standards for ethical AI and cybersecurity.

A self-sufficient and technologically advanced Europe will be in a stronger position to lead international economic governance. Through trade policies, regulatory influence and global investments, Europe can counterbalance the economic dominance of both the United States and China, ensuring a more multipolar, stable and democratic global economy. The time to act is now – by embracing innovation and strategic autonomy, Europe can secure its future as the economic and technological engine of the free world.

 

A global vision

European leadership must extend beyond its borders. Strengthening ties with democratic partners such as Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea and African countries on the road to economic development and a form of democratic governance will be essential in shaping a resilient free world. Europe should spearhead a renewed international commitment to human rights, climate action and fair trade. This means establishing new economic and security alliances that reduce dependence on authoritarian regimes and reinforcing multilateral institutions that promote stability, transparency and development.

Europe is at a crossroads. It can continue as a collection of nation-states, navigating crises reactively, or it can rise to the occasion and reshape the world order. The decline of American leadership is not just a challenge – it is an invitation for Europe to define its future and that of the free world.

As the Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius wrote, “You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” Europe must not be paralyzed by fear or division but must recognize its own inner capacity for leadership and transformation. Just as individuals awaken to their higher purpose, so too must societies. A strong, united and morally resolute Europe will not only serve its own people but also illuminate the path for the rest of the world.

If Europe hesitates, the void will not remain unfilled. China, Russia and other authoritarian powers are eager to impose an alternative order—one that undermines democratic institutions and human rights. The stakes are existential. It is time for Europe to step up and lead. As the Taoist wisdom reminds us, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Europe’s path to leadership starts now. The free world needs a new champion. Let it be Europe.