Emmanuel Macron delivered a lengthy speech at the Sorbonne on April 25th, in which he discussed the concept of the singularity of Europe. While warning of the risk of Europe’s marginalization in favor of rival powers, the French President highlighted the exceptional nature of Europe, which unites its inhabitants and fuels its vitality. By emphasizing the existence of a “We, Europeans,” Macron is sparking intellectual debate on the continent’s identity, a topic that has been central to the European project from the beginning. This idea was also championed by Jacques Delors, who believed that Europe needed to be more than just an economic union, but also a community with a shared identity and purpose.
The geopolitical implications of this discussion are significant, especially in light of the growing rivalry between the US and China, which has been likened to a new Cold War. The concept of Europe as a power seeks to challenge this potential bipolarity by highlighting that European interests and values are distinct from those of the US. Despite this differentiation, Macron acknowledges the shared history and commemoration of events like the D-Day landings, which symbolize the enduring transatlantic relationship. This nuanced approach aligns with Macron’s vision of a strong and independent Europe that can assert its own values and interests on the world stage.
Emmanuel Macron has consistently emphasized the uniqueness of Europe in comparison to other global powers, especially the US and China. He argues that Europe is not simply a part of the West, but a global continent that embraces its universality. This perspective extends to cultural matters, where Macron believes Europe must assert its identity in ways that other European leaders might be hesitant to do. By framing Europe as a continent with a distinctive belief in freedom, reason, and enlightenment, Macron seeks to position the European Union as the modern embodiment of this humanist tradition on the world stage.
This debate about Europe’s identity is not just an intellectual exercise, but a strategic battle for narratives that will shape the future of the continent. Macron and other European leaders must craft a cohesive story that positions Europe as a protagonist in the global arena, alongside rivals like Russia and China. This narrative, according to philosopher Luuk van Middelaar, should center on the concept of European humanism, which places the idea of the free and rational individual at its core. By presenting the EU as the political expression of this humanist tradition, Macron aims to assert Europe’s moral and cultural values in a world where these principles are under threat.
In conclusion, Emmanuel Macron’s call for a renewed focus on Europe’s singularity and unique identity is not just a philosophical exercise, but a strategic imperative in a rapidly changing global landscape. By positioning Europe as a distinct and powerful actor on the world stage, Macron seeks to ensure that European values and interests are actively promoted and defended in an era of growing geopolitical competition and uncertainty. This vision of Europe as a champion of humanism and individual freedom represents a bold and ambitious agenda for the continent, one that will require unity and determination to achieve in the years ahead.
