French President Emmanuel Macron deplored the growing fascination with authoritarianism within Europe, urging citizens to vote in the upcoming European elections from June 6 to 9 to defend democracy. Speaking at the start of a three-day state visit to Germany, Macron emphasized the urgency of re-engaging with democratic principles. “We have never had so many enemies both inside and outside. There is a form of crisis in our democracy,” he said during an exchange with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, addressing young people.
Macron highlighted that the strength of democracies lies in the permanent debate on all questions to identify the best decisions that reflect the people's will. He warned against the seductive allure of authoritarianism that is gaining traction within European democracies. According to Macron, there's a growing misconception that Europe would be better off as a nationalist entity. He stressed, “We have become accustomed to democracy and forgotten that it is a fight,” lamenting that nationalists and enemies of democracy exploit democratic values while vehemently criticizing them.
During a later press conference, Macron reiterated his concerns about the far right and nationalist movements such as the National Rally. He argued that extremes and nationalistic parties appear tempting but would dismantle the very aspects they applaud about Europe, citing the anti-COVID vaccine, aid to Ukraine, and cooperation on migratory issues as examples. “None of their speech holds up,” he asserted.
Macron further urged the upcoming European elections' significance, encouraging citizens to vote for parties that pledge to defend Europe. “It is Europe that makes it possible to defend democracy, the absence of hegemony on our continent, and the capacity to respond together to these challenges,” he emphasized.
This marked the beginning of Macron's three-day visit to Germany, aimed at strengthening the Franco-German relationship and addressing significant European issues like the war in Ukraine and commercial rivalries. German President Steinmeier concurred, stating, “The fact that Emmanuel Macron is here, that he is celebrating democracy with us, is a signal that we need an alliance of democrats in Europe.” Notably, this is the first state visit by a French president to Germany in 24 years, taking Macron to Berlin, Dresden, and Münster.
- Macron underlined that democracy's essence involves consistent engagement and debate. He expressed concern that democratic complacency has enabled nationalists to gain ground, leveraging democratic privilege while undermining its foundations.
- Steinmeier’s remarks reinforced the vision of a united democratic Europe, stressing that Macron's visit symbolizes a necessary alliance among European democrats. The Franco-German collaboration is crucial in navigating Europe's challenges.
- Macron's extensive visit to Germany includes strategic locations capable of highlighting the historical and contemporary significance of the Franco-German relationship and its impact on broader European stability.
