We felt reconciliation last week between the European People’s Party, of which the Slovenian Democratic Party is a member, and the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, after Martin Schulz, a member of the Socialist group, introduced himself to the EPP as a candidate for President of the Parliament. After Martin Schulz concluded his speech presenting Europe’s bloody history along with the commitment to never let it happen again, he and Joseph Daul, our group’s president, emphatically shook hands. Forgiveness and trust were felt as Daul offered his support in the elections.
Mr. Schultz already won support today after the first round of voting. Both groups, which represent the largest bodies on both sides of the political spectrum, supported each others’ decision, as it is for the common good of all Europeans and everyone has to play their role in politics for which they were elected.
The new president promised to be a president for all, clearly understanding the new role he is undertaking. His position is completely different from that of president of the group. His goals will be to strengthen the role of Parliament and increase European unity, especially in this time of crisis. We live in a time marking the longest period of peace, security and prosperity in European history. We have overcome war, famine, and have also opened up our borders. Yet, now, citizens fear for their jobs, their pensions, safety in old age, and for their children’s future … It is imperative for us to learn to take command of this crisis. Even our diversity is an advantage and we must be able to preserve it for future generations.
Many in the world look towards Europe as an example of overcoming hatred and achieving unity. Many see us in a better light than we do ourselves. The European Parliament must exhibit the symbol of democracy overcoming dictatorship, to be able to defeat this crisis of confidence in the European institutions. An expanding Europe can only be achieved through more parliamentarism, with more democracy.
Since the President and I were born during the same year, my experiences were reflected in his speech. Our parents lived tough lives and always strove to improve it for their children. And indeed our lives improved, but it is not preordained that it will be better for our children and grandchildren. Therefore, we face a great responsibility for the future, for young people, to create the conditions for their further development, their education, and for their employment. This can only be achieved by respecting the fundamental values ??of Europe.
Europe must not be a problem for the crisis, but its solution, and the European Parliament needs to play a key role.
