Renew Europe, ALDE Party & European Democratic Party (EDP), have adopted a bold new joint declaration, Freedom on the Offensive, at their Leaders’ Summit in Brussels; a united response to the rise of populism, democratic backsliding and external threats to the European project.
The declaration outlines a liberal-democratic roadmap for a stronger, more autonomous and values-driven European Union.
“In a world where freedom is no longer a given and international law is trampled by reactionary actors, Renew Europe stands as a shield; unapologetically pro-European, unafraid to speak truth, and unwavering in our defence of the rule of law and democratic values,” said Valérie Hayer, President of Renew Europe.
The Freedom on the Offensive declaration sets out Renew Europe’s priorities for the next institutional cycle, including:
* Establishing a European Defence Union backed by a strong EU-based defence industry and a “Buy European First” principle;
* Promoting ethical, human-centred artificial intelligence rooted in European values;
* Fully enforcing Article 7 and suspending EU funds to governments that undermine the rule of law;
* Creating a new EU Democracy Shield to counter foreign interference;
* Deepening partnerships with global democracies, including the United Kingdom, Norway, Canada and Iceland;
* Simplifying the single market to accelerate green and digital transitions;
* Designing a next-generation EU budget that looks forward, not back.
