A wake-up call - my reflection on the EU election

In the immediate aftermath of the EU parliamentary election, I found it worthwhile to take a moment to breathe and reflect before sharing my thoughts.

Across the EU we have seen a – predicted – massive slap in the face for established parties. Populists and EU critics are on the rise and in big EU member states such as France and Germany won the polls or came in second. Whether this is was a tectonic shift in the political landscape remains to be seen.

So, what’s next? Here are my six conclusions from this election:

• Take it seriously. This election first and foremost is feedback to policy makers. Growing parts of societies across Europe feel a high degree of anxiety while experiencing an unprecedented speed of change and complexity. This has always been a door opener for extremists and populists.
• Blaming voters never works. The results of this democratic vote are now in, and as democrats, it is our duty to respect the outcome, regardless of our personal preferences. Instead, accept the challenge and start with reflecting.
• Listen and learn. The emergence of new(er) political movements and parties indicates a shift in the political landscape. It is crucial to understand and address the underlying concerns and aspirations that these movements represent. All stakeholders should courageously acknowledge that change and transformation is painful and scary at times. Sugar coating doesn’t help. Adress the concerns and focus on the opportunities. And offer support to those who cannot adapt or change on their own.
• Reset and reinvent Europe. Europe needs to be even stronger while at the same time let go. We all feel the burden of what seems to have become an almost uncontrollable bureaucracy. Europe and its institutions need to find a reset button, focus on leaner regulation and a disruptive bureaucracy reduction. This would allow for the EU to focus on what really matters. It is not the size or shape of a cucumber which gives Europe a strong voice between the two economic and societal superpowers in the US and China.
• Focus on the original European brand promise. Europe needs to recalibrate on its brand core again. Remember what 1957 and the Treaty of Rome was all about. It started with a clear vision on a safe and secure Europe (derived from post WW migration and refugee crisis), a prosperous and sustainable Europe, a social Europe and a a stronger Europe in the world with more common commitment to security and defense. What if we let go on all other fields of actions? I am convinced it would revitalize the European idea.
• Embrace the algorhythms. Almost all established parties seem to have missed the boat on the most important communication channel. Regardless of targeted age groups, populists have early on focused on social media. They strategically analyzed its potential, they strategically activated and are now in the pole position. Established parties should invest into relearning how to communicate on eye-level with voters.

After the election is before the next election. I will keep on going trying to convince and highlight that there’s no better place for us in Europe than Europe. It is a guarantor for stability, prosperity, openness and tolerance and freedom.