Europe is at a crossroads, and its cities are bearing the brunt of multiple challenges.
Cities are international conduits for the passage of trade, commerce and labour. They are largely responsible for carrying out the day-to-day activities required by pan-national programmes and agreements, such as finding homes for migrants. Moreover, it is in cities that social cohesion is most evident and where high concentrations of diverse peoples means that intercultural cooperation has to succeed. As such, the future of Europe is heavily dependent on the success of its cities.
Europe has many achievements to be proud of: enduring peace, greater wealth and solidarity. But it is being shaken at its foundations by the Brexit vote, by growing Euroscepticism, and by the rise of movements that stoke fear and disillusionment across the region.
There is a growing disconnect between citizens and the E. U. institutions. Citizens are asking politicians: What does the E. U. really do for us? Why does it matter? As city leaders, my colleagues and I are in a unique position to bridge this gap.
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Rethink, remodel Europe
It is time to rethink the way we do things in Europe. We are not prepared to watch Europe fall further into Euroscepticism, disillusionment and political extremism. Europe’s large cities need a European Union that can deliver effective solutions now.
The European Commission recently presented a “white paper” on the future of Europe, which is a useful contribution to start reflecting on next steps. But to truly rethink the way things are done, citizens must be put front and centre. Our scenario for the European Union is based on a core set of values: respect, freedom, cohesion, solidarity, security, diversity and equal opportunities.
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