Cologne – ESI at debate on crises, wars and conflicts

Gerald Knaus and Michel Friedman. Photo: Isabel Shayani

ESI’s Gerald Knaus was invited to speak at a debate on “Crises, wars and conflicts: Europe’s Way Out of Powerlessness” organised by the international literature festival lit. Cologne.

Gerald argued that Europe is facing an unprecedented crisis. He pointed out that anti-European politicians are rapidly gaining influence, while Russia is waging the largest European war since 1945. Together, these forces have fuelled widespread fear of uncontrolled migration, which is now fracturing our democracies.

He warned that the order, peace, and prosperity of Europe are under the greatest threat since the end of the Cold War. Disillusioned young Europeans are increasingly turning away from the EU. What’s missing, Gerald emphasised, is a compelling and unifying vision for a continent in turmoil. Drawing inspiration from history, he proposed ways this vision could be transformed into practical, broadly supported policies, aimed at securing a Europe free of war, political prisoners, and torture.

Gerald debated with Nicole Deitelhoff (director of the Peace Research Institute Frankfurt) and Michel Friedman (author).