The idea of a united Europe is older than the European Union itself. George Washington, Victor Hugo, Aristide Briand and Winston Churchill formulated the idea of a federal Europe. What was long considered an idealistic vision of the future is taking on new urgency in view of the current geopolitical situation.
At the same time, Europe is confronted with a reality that requires quick answers. Security threats, economic competitive pressures and geopolitical power shifts leave little room for strategic indecision. Nevertheless, one thing is clear: Europe consists of sovereign states with established political and cultural identities. A federal merger can therefore only be imagined gradually and realistically.
Find a pragmatic start
A viable start lies in clearly defined core areas. Security in all its dimensions – military, hybrid and in cyberspace – as well as energy supply form the logical basis for this. This is where Europe’s ability to act is directly decided. Other policy areas can follow as soon as trust, structures and shared decision-making mechanisms are established.
Complementing existing alliances – not competition
The United States of Europe is not intended as a counter-model to NATO. The transatlantic alliance remains a central pillar of European security. Rather, the aim is for Europe to have independent political and strategic ability to act, which complements existing alliances and makes them more resilient. A Europe that can appear united also strengthens its role within international partnerships.
Europe’s underestimated strength
With around 450 million inhabitants, Europe is demographically stronger than the United States of America with around 330 million inhabitants and significantly larger than Russia with around 130 million. However, this size only has an impact if Europe speaks with one voice. For international partners, a united Europe would be more predictable and reliable than a patchwork of individual national positions.
The real hurdle lies in implementation
The biggest obstacle is not the idea itself, but its implementation. Complex democratic decision-making processes are increasingly being exploited by anti-European and anti-democratic forces. External influences further exacerbate this dynamic. The aim is often not to debate the content, but rather to block European decision-making ability. This takes time, political energy and strategic options.
Resilience as a key political task
The coming years must therefore be dedicated to strengthening European resilience. This includes clear legal frameworks, high transparency requirements and a critical review of party financing and external channels of influence. Only a politically resilient Europe can remain able to act in the long term.
A realistic path forward
A strong, united Europe is not a utopian vision, but a strategic necessity. The gradual development towards a United States of Europe offers the opportunity to secure security, stability and prosperity in the long term. Looking ahead to 2026, it becomes clear that a Europe that acts together is the key to a peaceful and self-determined future.
Jürgen Pfitzer, TECNARO GmbH