Peace in Europe cannot be taken for granted. For centuries, wars brought destruction and suffering to the continent and killed millions of people. This is why the idea of a united Europe was born. It was to prevent the horrors of the Second World War from ever happening again. Europe brings former enemies together. Conflicts are no longer solved by weapons but by negotiations. We have to preserve the unique achievements of peace, security, democracy and prosperity.
That’s why I want Europe
Who is to decide about the big global questions in the future such as the environment, financial markets or security? The US and China on their own? Or do we get a say, too?
Only around one percent of the global population lives in Germany today. This is not enough to leave impact on important issues. Only in a strong Europe can we persist alongside the US and China and shape the living conditions of future generations.
Since its introduction, the Euro has guaranteed stable prices, even more successful than the Deutsche Mark had been before. Also externally, when compared against the Dollar, the Pound and the Yen, the Euro has retained its value. The single currency area gives companies easy access to millions of consumers, which generates growth and jobs. There is no doubt that the current crisis is costing Germany a lot of money, but the economic balance is still positive for Germany.
Global challenges such as climate change require joint action. As part of the 2020 Strategy, the Member States of the European Union have set out ambitious goals for climate and energy policies, and the union of states is viewed internationally as a pioneer and a role model. Europe uses this position in its efforts to achieve global measures.
The European Union makes travelling between the Member States easy for its citizens, mostly without any controls or waiting time. This is not possible in any other union of states around the world.
Whether it’s about cheaper phone conversations, air travel or medication, strict controls on foods or standardized rights relating to defective products − in Europe the rights and protection of consumers are strengthened and improved across borders.
Enjoy education in Hamburg, your first job in Stockholm and retirement on the Riviera – Europeans can live, learn and work in any Member State of their choice.
The Court of Justice of the European Union in Luxembourg and the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg protect the rights and freedoms of citizens beyond national borders. This includes the freedom of expression, the right of religious freedom and equality of men and women.
The European Union supports university and school students who want to live and learn in neighbour states. Professionals and scientists are also encouraged and supported to work beyond their own states’ borders. International experiences are not only important for persons’ educational and professional development, but they also provide insights into other cultures and traditions, thereby expanding people’s perspectives.
Solidarity is one of the central values of Europe. The European Union works for both its citizens and its Member States, which means that structurally weak regions are systematically supported and promoted. Germany also benefited from this after its reunification. Europe provides comprehensive health protection for workers and promotes workers’ participation as well as the integration of persons with disabilities and much more.
“United in diversity” is the motto of Europe. It stands for one union which, based on common values and cultural traditions rooted in them, regards the existing differences as an enriching opportunity for development. Even as Europe is growing ever closer, the various cultures, customs, traditions and languages of its Member States are respected and promoted.
