The foundations of Western democracies are faltering, and Europe is struggling to react to the surge of protectionist measures from Donald Trump, the threats of war from Russia, and the rise of populism. Protectionism, authoritarianism and force have replaced liberalism, democracy and law.
The aim of Nicole Gnesotto’s latest essay is to understand this rupture in the world order and to try to provide answers for a European revival.
Since 1945, the West has been dominated by the United States. They are the only ones to have the right of veto in all cases within the major international bodies. For more than 60 years, Europe has developed in an environment of growth, openness, globalization and peace. But for the past two decades, the scenario has been quite different. China has joined the WTO, George W. Bush introduced the Patriot Act after the 2001 attacks, Vladimir Putin reigns over Russia, and advances in AI and technology have virtualized trade. Information is oriented and the press is less and less independent: “The idea of a surveillance capitalism, which would replace industrial capitalism and then financial capitalism, and whose aim would be to shape our thoughts and our personal preferences to make the most of it.”
The author draws an interesting parallel between the political hyper-control of the citizens in the Chinese communist regime and an equivalent control of Western citizens by the platforms and algorithms that guide beliefs, positions and desires.
In this context, can Europe still count on its American ally to defend its territories and democracy? The Old Continent, still asleep with good post-war resolutions, did not realize the evolution of American society towards more isolationism, and that trade was no longer a factor of peace.
So, in June 2025, Europe wakes up and acts to increase its military spending to defend its territories, because the great wars may be revived.
To explain the rise of populism, the author describes globalization as the main cause linked to massive deindustrialization in Western countries. While globalization has had significant effects on the decline in the global rate of extreme poverty, the fact remains that it has increased inequalities within rich countries, no longer allowing the coveted social elevator; social redistribution is struggling.
The picture painted by the author is serious and realistic. The essay is enlightening, pleasant to read and well documented. It invites us to reflect as European citizens on our role in maintaining liberalism in our societies.
Nicole GNESOTTO, historian, is vice-president of the Jacques Delors Institute, Professor Emeritus at the National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts.
Sophie FRIOT