The crisis in Europe has deepened, sparking attention from global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump. His recent National Security Strategy (NSS) presents a dire view of Europe’s future, claiming it may become “unrecognizable in 20 years” without intervention. Trump attributes this potential decline to what he terms “civilizational erasure” and suggests that the United States should step in to restore Europe’s “former greatness.” While he identifies real problems within Europe, many issues he highlights are oversimplified.
Key Issues Facing Europe
Europe’s challenges stem from decades of underinvestment in its citizens and a political climate that often ignores marginalized communities. The continent’s leaders tend to sidestep these conversations, with some denying the issues altogether.
Among those most affected are the Roma, Europe’s largest ethnic minority. They face harsh realities, such as job discrimination and poor living conditions. The NSS notes that Europe’s declining confidence is evident in its handling of relationships with both marginalized groups and Russia.
Rising Tensions and Political Responses
- The NSS indicates a crisis in European self-confidence regarding its position against Russia.
- Simultaneously, Europe displays aggression toward its minority populations, especially the Roma.
For example, countries like Slovenia passed laws to tighten security in Roma neighborhoods, while far-right rhetoric has gained ground in Portugal and Italy, further alienating these communities. The treatment of Roma reflects a broader issue: while European nations hesitate to confront external threats like Russia, they intensify scrutiny on their own marginalized citizens.
The Economic Impact of Exclusion
Europe’s economic decline is stark, with its global GDP share shrinking from 25% in 1990 to just 14% today. A significant component of this decline is the exclusion of 12 million Roma from economic participation. If the employment rates among Roma matched the national averages in countries like Romania, Slovakia, and Bulgaria, the economic benefits could reach 10 billion euros (approximately $11.6 billion).
The Democratic Deficit
Furthermore, Trump’s NSS highlights a “subversion of democratic processes” in Europe, echoing the sentiment that millions remain unrepresented. The Roma, despite numbering over 12 million, have no seats in the European Parliament.
This lack of representation exacerbates feelings of marginalization and reduces political engagement. Higher political exclusion leads to lower voter turnout, creating a cycle of underrepresentation.
Proposed Solutions to Europe’s Crisis
Trump suggests that far-right policies can address Europe’s problems. However, countries influenced by xenophobic policies struggle economically. For instance, the UK’s GDP is estimated to be 6-8% lower post-Brexit due to a campaign driven by anti-immigrant sentiment.
The evidence suggests that exclusionary policies weaken economies and erode democratic ideals. Instead of turning back to extremist ideologies, Europe needs to embrace inclusive realism: investing in all communities as a means of enhancing societal strength and global relevance.
The Strategic Necessity of Inclusion
China’s rise demonstrates the importance of investing in health, education, and employment. Europe cannot afford to neglect any segment of its population while aiming to be a key global player.
Ultimately, the choice is between perpetuating current wounds or promoting healing through investment in the citizens often seen as expendable. Time will tell whether European leaders will choose the latter, recognizing that revitalizing the continent requires collective progress.
