By John Q. Hosedrinker 
For investors worldwide, the attraction to a democratic state of law is undeniable. However, the current global landscape presents a stark contrast: on one side, the authoritarian regime of China, and on the other, the United States, increasingly perceived as distancing itself from the very principles of a state of law that so appeal to investors. This dichotomy raises significant questions about the future appeal of democratic governance for international capital.
Read the original article here
The call for Europe to step up and truly act like a global power, as urged by President Macron, resonates deeply in today’s increasingly complex and often volatile world. It’s a sentiment born from a recognition that the continent possesses significant economic clout, indeed boasting the second-largest economy globally, yet struggles to translate that into consistent geopolitical influence. This paradox – immense potential hampered by internal divisions – is at the heart of the discussion.
The core of the challenge lies in Europe’s inherent structure, where sovereign nations, each with their own distinct interests and priorities, often find it difficult to coalesce into a unified voice. This fragmentation prevents the formation of a cohesive strategy, leading to a situation where Europe, despite its economic might, lacks the singular vision and decisive action that define a true world power. It’s not about lacking economic capacity, but rather about the ability to harness it effectively on the international stage.
Furthermore, there’s a perception, articulated by some, that Europe has become somewhat stagnant and overly focused on the past, resembling an “old museum” rather than a dynamic force for the future. This perspective suggests that an over-reliance on past glories and a hesitance to embrace necessary modernization in areas like infrastructure and manufacturing contribute to a diminished relevance, particularly in regions like Asia, where the influence of other global players like the United States is often more pronounced.
The notion of “acting” like a world power implies a tangible capacity, not just an aspiration. For Europe to truly achieve this, a fundamental shift is needed. This involves not only strengthening its economic foundations through rebuilding domestic industries and reducing reliance on external partners but also addressing its military capabilities. The idea of a strong, unified European army, capable of withstanding external threats, emerges as a crucial component in this transformation.
Such a move would necessitate a deeper level of integration, perhaps even a stronger federal structure, to overcome the persistent national hesitations and vetoes that often stymie decisive action. It’s a complex undertaking, as sovereign nations are understandably protective of their autonomy, but the current geopolitical landscape demands a more unified and robust approach if Europe is to assert itself effectively.
The discussion also touches upon the historical relationship with other global powers, particularly the United States. There’s a sense that Europe has, for a long time, relied heavily on American military protection without reciprocating to the same degree. The call for Europe to become more self-sufficient militarily is, therefore, intertwined with a re-evaluation of its alliances and its role as a partner on the global stage, moving away from what some perceive as a “vassal state” mentality.
Moreover, the idea of becoming a world power isn’t merely about military strength or economic size; it’s also about projecting a consistent and respected foreign policy. Some argue that Europe’s willingness to engage in trade with nations that pose geopolitical threats, driven by short-term profits, undermines its credibility and ability to act decisively. A true world power, in this view, would prioritize its geopolitical interests and values over immediate economic gains, even if it means making difficult choices, such as severing ties with problematic regimes.
The urgency of this call is amplified by the evolving global power dynamics. With potential shifts in leadership and alliances in other major powers, Europe finds itself facing an even more precarious situation, requiring it to step up and contribute more significantly to global stability and security. The idea that Europe “retired in 1945” and has yet to fully re-emerge as a major player is a stark reminder of the long road ahead.
Ultimately, the aspiration for Europe to become a world power is not an easy one. It requires overcoming deep-seated internal divisions, undertaking significant investment in defense and infrastructure, and adopting a more assertive and unified foreign policy. It’s a challenge that demands a willingness to bear costs and make sacrifices, a commitment that many believe Europe has yet to fully demonstrate. The question remains whether Europe will choose to “cosplay” as a global power or commit to the arduous but necessary steps to truly become one.