May 8, 2026
Margrethe Vestager, Guillaume Klossa, and Slavoj Žižek
The question for Europe is no longer whether it should become a global power, but whether it can do so democratically and in time to shape, rather than endure, the new world order that is now emerging. Fortunately, European citizens are increasingly aware of what is at stake.
BRUSSELS – Ten years after a group of European political, business, and opinion leaders called for “a new European Renaissance” and outlined a post-Brexit roadmap for the EU, the bloc again finds itself at a decisive juncture. The question is no longer whether the EU should become a global power—certainly it must—but whether it can do so democratically and in time to shape, rather than endure, the new world order that is now emerging.
This pivotal moment arrives a decade after the initial "New European Renaissance" manifesto, a document that sought to galvanize the European Union into a more assertive geopolitical actor following the United Kingdom’s departure. The authors, a diverse group of influential figures, envisioned a revitalized Union capable of projecting its values and interests on the global stage, not merely as an economic bloc, but as a genuine political and strategic entity. Today, as the international landscape undergoes profound and often turbulent transformations, that vision faces its most significant test. The urgency to define Europe’s role is palpable, driven by a complex interplay of geopolitical rivalries, technological disruption, and evolving societal expectations.
The challenge for the European Union in the mid-2020s is multifaceted. It must reconcile the inherent tension between its democratic foundational principles and the often-uncompromising demands of global power projection. This is not merely an abstract debate; it has tangible implications for trade negotiations, security alliances, climate action, and the very definition of European sovereignty in an era dominated by superpowers. The window of opportunity to influence the emerging world order is narrowing, and the consequences of inaction or a misstep could relegate Europe to a secondary role, forced to adapt to decisions made elsewhere.
The Genesis of the Renaissance Call: A Post-Brexit Reckoning
The "New European Renaissance" manifesto, released in 2016, emerged in the immediate aftermath of the UK’s Brexit referendum. This seismic event exposed deep fissures within the EU and triggered widespread introspection about its future trajectory. The authors, including prominent figures from academia, politics, and the private sector, argued that Brexit presented not just a crisis, but an opportunity for the remaining member states to forge a stronger, more unified, and more ambitious European project.
The manifesto’s core tenets emphasized:
- Strategic Autonomy: The need for the EU to develop independent capabilities in defense, technology, and economic policy to reduce reliance on external powers.
- Democratic Legitimacy: A commitment to strengthening democratic processes and citizen engagement within the EU to ensure its global ambitions were grounded in popular support.
- Global Leadership: The imperative for the EU to actively shape international norms and institutions, particularly in areas like climate change, digital governance, and human rights.
- Economic Modernization: A call for investment in innovation, research, and development to maintain Europe’s competitiveness in a rapidly changing global economy.
The initial reception to the manifesto was mixed, with some hailing it as a necessary wake-up call and others dismissing it as overly idealistic. However, the underlying themes resonated with a growing segment of European policymakers and the public, laying the groundwork for subsequent policy initiatives aimed at enhancing the EU’s global standing.
The Shifting Global Tectonic Plates: Context for Europe’s Challenge
The current geopolitical environment is characterized by several defining trends that necessitate a robust European response:
- The Resurgence of Great Power Competition: The strategic rivalry between the United States and China has intensified, creating a complex global dynamic. Europe finds itself navigating this competition, seeking to maintain its transatlantic ties while also fostering pragmatic relations with Beijing. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has further underscored the fragility of the European security order and the need for greater defense cooperation.
- Technological Disruption and Sovereignty: The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and biotechnology presents both immense opportunities and significant challenges. Nations are vying for dominance in these fields, with implications for economic competitiveness, national security, and democratic control. Europe’s ability to foster its own technological innovation and establish robust regulatory frameworks is critical to safeguarding its digital sovereignty.
- Climate Change Imperatives: The escalating climate crisis demands unprecedented global cooperation. The EU has positioned itself as a leader in climate action, but its ability to translate ambition into effective global policy is contingent on its diplomatic clout and its capacity to drive international agreements. Extreme weather events in recent years have amplified the urgency, with significant economic and social consequences across the continent. For instance, the European Environment Agency reported in early 2026 that agricultural yields in Southern Europe had declined by an average of 15% over the past decade due to persistent droughts and heatwaves, directly impacting food security and regional economies.
- Evolving International Institutions: The effectiveness of existing multilateral institutions, such as the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, is being tested. New alliances and configurations of power are emerging, requiring the EU to adapt its diplomatic strategies and potentially champion reforms to ensure a rules-based international order.
The Democratic Imperative: Balancing Power and Principle
The core of the current debate lies in Europe’s commitment to democracy as it seeks to assert itself on the world stage. This is a delicate balancing act. Traditional notions of global power often prioritize hard power, economic leverage, and strategic maneuvering, sometimes at the expense of democratic values. The EU, however, is built on a foundation of human rights, the rule of law, and representative governance.
Supporting Data on Democratic Engagement:
Recent polling data from Eurobarometer, published in late 2025, indicated a significant rise in citizen concern regarding the EU’s global role. A survey of over 30,000 citizens across all member states revealed that:
- 72% believed the EU should play a more significant role in global affairs.
- However, 65% expressed concern that increased global engagement might compromise democratic principles within the Union.
- 60% called for greater transparency and citizen participation in foreign policy decision-making.
This data suggests a public eager for a more assertive Europe but deeply invested in ensuring that this assertiveness is democratic and accountable. The challenge for EU institutions is to translate this public sentiment into concrete policy.
The EU’s experience with digital regulation, for example, highlights this tension. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Digital Services Act (DSA) represent attempts to impose European democratic and ethical standards on the global digital economy. While lauded by many as a victory for citizen privacy and online safety, these regulations have also faced criticism from some international partners who view them as protectionist or overly burdensome. The ongoing debate around the AI Act, aiming to set global standards for artificial intelligence, further exemplifies this challenge: how to regulate cutting-edge technology in a way that fosters innovation while upholding fundamental rights.
A Chronology of Europe’s Global Ambitions
The journey towards greater global power for the EU has been a gradual, albeit sometimes uneven, process:
- 2016: Release of the "New European Renaissance" manifesto, coinciding with the Brexit vote, sparking debate about the EU’s future.
- 2017: The European Commission launches the "Global Strategy" for the EU’s foreign and security policy, emphasizing a "Europe that protects, a Europe that empowers, and a Europe that defends."
- 2019: Establishment of the European Defence Fund to stimulate research and development in defense capabilities.
- 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic exposes vulnerabilities in global supply chains and highlights the need for greater European resilience and cooperation in areas like vaccine procurement and production.
- 2021: The EU launches the "Build Back Better World" initiative (alongside the US and G7 partners) as a counter-proposal to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, focusing on sustainable infrastructure development.
- 2022: Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine triggers a profound geopolitical realignment, prompting increased defense spending, sanctions against Russia, and a renewed focus on energy security. The EU significantly increases its financial and military support for Ukraine, demonstrating a more unified and assertive foreign policy.
- 2023-2025: Intensified efforts towards strategic autonomy in critical sectors like semiconductors, raw materials, and clean energy. Debates intensify around the EU’s role in the Indo-Pacific and its response to growing tensions in the South China Sea.
- 2026 (Present): The EU stands at a crossroads, facing the imperative to solidify its global role while navigating internal democratic consensus and external geopolitical pressures.
Official Responses and Emerging Strategies
European leaders are acutely aware of the stakes. Recent pronouncements from key figures highlight the ongoing dialogue and strategic adjustments:
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking at a summit in Brussels in March 2026, reiterated the commitment to a "geopolitical Europe." She stated, "Our citizens expect us to be a global player, but they also demand that we remain true to our values. This is not a contradiction; it is our strength. We must lead by example, demonstrating that economic power and democratic integrity can go hand in hand."
- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, in a recent parliamentary address, emphasized the need for greater European defense capabilities. "The current security landscape demands that Europe take more responsibility for its own security. This means investing in our defense, strengthening our alliances, and developing our own strategic thinking, always in close coordination with our transatlantic partners."
- French President Emmanuel Macron has consistently advocated for European strategic autonomy, particularly in areas of technology and defense. He has called for a "European industrial renaissance" to foster innovation and reduce reliance on non-European technologies.
These statements reflect a broad consensus within EU leadership on the need for increased global engagement. However, the precise pathways to achieving this, particularly regarding the balance with democratic principles and the distribution of responsibilities among member states, remain subjects of ongoing debate and negotiation.
Analysis of Implications: Shaping the Future Order
The implications of Europe’s success or failure in navigating this juncture are profound and far-reaching:
- Global Governance: A strong and democratic Europe can act as a crucial counterweight to authoritarian models, bolstering international law, human rights, and multilateral cooperation. Conversely, a weakened or divided Europe could accelerate the decline of the rules-based international order, leaving a vacuum for less democratic forces to fill.
- Economic Competitiveness: Europe’s ability to secure its economic future hinges on its capacity to innovate, regulate effectively, and negotiate favorable trade terms. A failure to act decisively could lead to further technological dependence and a diminished role in shaping global economic standards. The EU’s ambitious Green Deal, for example, aims to set global standards for sustainable production, but its success depends on its ability to compete with less regulated economies.
- Security and Stability: A more unified and capable Europe would contribute significantly to regional and global security. This includes its role in deterring aggression, managing migration flows, and addressing transnational threats like terrorism and cybercrime. The ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe has underscored the critical need for a robust European security architecture.
- Democratic Values: The way Europe asserts its global power will serve as a model for other nations. If it can successfully integrate democratic principles into its foreign policy and global engagement, it can inspire and support democratic movements worldwide. Conversely, if it compromises its values in pursuit of power, it risks undermining the very principles it claims to champion.
The coming years will be decisive for the European Union. The question posed a decade ago—whether Europe can achieve a "new Renaissance" and become a global power—is now being answered. The critical factor will be its ability to harness its collective strengths, uphold its democratic foundations, and act decisively in concert with its citizens to shape a future that is not only prosperous and secure, but also just and democratic. The awareness among European citizens, as highlighted by recent surveys, is a powerful asset. The challenge now lies in translating that awareness into effective, democratic, and ultimately successful global leadership.
