The EU needs an urgent reform to stay relevant in Ukraine talks

The European Free Alliance (EFA) believes that the European Union must absolutely be present in any potential negotiations regarding peace in Ukraine. 3 years after the beginning of the Russian invasion, the President of the United States and the President of Russia are set to establish a bilateral negotiation table. Europe – and Ukraine- cannot accept being marginalized in these potential negotiations.

Europe, which upholds democratic principles on its own soil, must back Ukraine and play a significant role in the negotiation table, ensuring respect for international law, the UN charter, and the right of peoples to self-determination. The financial effort that the European Union has made to support the Ukrainian people is substantial. It is an effort paid by all Europeans to protect their continent from the ambitions of a Russian president whose imperialist desires and contempt for democracy are well known. 

But Europe needs to make a move. To stay relevant in the shaping of Ukraine’s future, the EU must adapt and step up as a relevant geopolitical actor. It must work effectively as a united actor with a single and strong voice. An urgent EU reform is needed to democratize Europe, to better integrate all its members, and to improve its efficiency in decision-making. Without it, the EU won’t be fit to face the geopolitical challenges of the 21^st century, and will be sidelined as an irrelevant actor, as is already becoming clear.

The EU has an important mission: defending the democratic principles around the world. It needs to guarantee international law and protect the rights of the people in Ukraine, and everywhere. And to do that, it needs to modernize internally. Only with reform will Europe act effectively and with a single voice. EFA calls on the EU to set in motion a process of reform as soon as possible. The EU reform is urgent!