Between Two Worlds: Europe’s Role in the Clash of Ideologies

A Misguided Pursuit of Neutrality

In the face of a rapidly changing global landscape, French President Emmanuel Macron has been pushing for Europe to reduce its dependence on the United States and avoid getting dragged into the confrontation between China and the U.S. over Taiwan. During a recent visit to China, Macron emphasized his vision of “strategic autonomy” for Europe. While it is true that Europe should strive for self-reliance and a strong stance on the global stage, Macron’s pursuit of neutrality in the context of an ideological battle between democracy and totalitarianism misses the mark.

Europe must not fall into the trap of believing that it can remain untouched by the ideological struggle unfolding around it.

Macron’s assertions imply that Europe should distance itself from its traditional allies, chiefly the United States, and maintain a neutral stance in their conflict with China. However, this perspective overlooks the fundamental nature of the current global struggle: it is not just a geopolitical contest, but an ideological one. The conflict that has been shaping up between the United States, Europe, and China is not merely about territory or trade but about the very principles that underpin our societies – democracy versus totalitarianism.

The United States, Europe, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, among others, all belong to the same construct of Western liberal democracy. By seeking to position Europe as a neutral third party in this conflict, Macron is failing to acknowledge the common values that bind these nations together.

Europe must not fall into the trap of believing that it can remain untouched by the ideological struggle unfolding around it. The consequences of misreading the global landscape could be dire, and there is no room for complacency in the face of existential threats to democracy.

Instead of pursuing a misguided neutrality, Europe must recognize the urgent need for unity and collaboration with its Western allies to protect and advance their shared values.

Democracy Under Siege: The Authoritarian Challenge

As the world navigates an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, it is crucial to recognize that democracy itself is under attack. China, a leading authoritarian power, has consistently sought to undermine the legitimacy of democratic systems, asserting that its own model of governance is superior and more effective. By doing so, China is directly challenging the very foundation of the Western liberal order.

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, China leveraged the global crisis to undermine democracy promote its authoritarian model. Chinese officials and state media outlets boasted about their ability to contain the virus through strict, centralized measures. They also criticized the responses of democratic nations, claiming that their decentralized and open systems were ill-equipped to handle the crisis. This rhetoric painted a picture of a failing democratic system, unable to protect its citizens in times of need.

China’s message is clear: democracy is no longer the best model for global governance.

Xi Jinping himself took aim at democracies in May 2021, stating, “Judging from how this pandemic is being handled by different leaderships and political systems, we can clearly see who has done better.” This comment served to bolster China’s narrative of authoritarian efficiency and to diminish the credibility of democracies in the face of a global challenge.

China’s message was clear: democracy is no longer the best model for global governance. Instead, they argued that their brand of authoritarianism was the key to stability, progress, and prosperity. By capitalizing on the chaos caused by the pandemic, China aimed to erode global confidence in the democratic model and present authoritarianism as a viable alternative.

It is within this context that Macron’s pursuit of European strategic autonomy becomes deeply concerning. By attempting to forge a neutral path between the US and China, Europe risks undermining its commitment to democratic values and empowering authoritarian regimes that seek to dismantle the liberal democratic order. The stakes are high, and Europe must choose its path carefully, recognizing that the fight for democracy is a battle that must be won.

The Perils of Embracing Chinese Endorsement

Macron’s vision of strategic autonomy for Europe has found an eager supporter in the Chinese Communist Party, which sees the weakening of the transatlantic relationship as an opportunity to accelerate the perceived decline of the West. The enthusiasm of China’s leadership for Macron’s concept should give Europe pause, as the long-term consequences of aligning with an authoritarian regime could be disastrous for the continent’s democratic values and global influence.

By embracing Chinese endorsement of European strategic autonomy, Europe risks playing into the hands of a totalitarian regime that seeks to undermine the very foundations of liberal democracy. China’s actions, such as its aggressive posture towards Taiwan, suppression of human rights in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, and increasing influence in global institutions, highlight the regime’s antithetical stance to democratic values.

The path to true autonomy lies in strengthening relationships with democratic allies and fostering unity in the face of shared challenges.

Moreover, aligning with China on the principle of strategic autonomy may also have severe economic repercussions for Europe. As China seeks to extend its economic influence worldwide, it may attempt to exploit European divisions and dependencies, putting European industries and economies at risk. The pursuit of autonomy should not come at the cost of Europe’s long-term economic stability and security.

Instead of courting Chinese support in the quest for strategic autonomy, Europe must take a clear-eyed view of the potential dangers of embracing a regime that actively seeks to erode the liberal democratic order. It is essential to recognize that the ideological battle between democracy and totalitarianism cannot be won by siding with those who undermine the principles upon which Europe’s societies are built. The path to true autonomy lies in strengthening relationships with democratic allies and fostering unity in the face of shared challenges.

The Power of Democratic Solidarity in the 21st Century

One essential aspect of unity is cooperation on defense and security matters. While Macron has called for increased European defense capabilities, it is vital to remember that transatlantic security ties have been the cornerstone of peace and stability since World War II. Rather than diluting these partnerships, Europe should work to enhance collaboration with its allies in areas such as intelligence sharing, joint military exercises, and technology development, in addition to pursuing its own globally capable military force.

As Europe faces the challenges of the 21st century, it must understand the power of democratic solidarity in addressing issues such as the rise of Eastern totalitarianism, environmental collapse, and economic stagnation. By working closely with its democratic allies, Europe can harness the collective strength and resources necessary to tackle these problems head-on.

Firstly, confronting the environmental crisis requires a coordinated global response, with all democratic nations sharing knowledge, technology, and resources to combat climate change and preserve the planet for future generations. Europe must join forces with the United States, the UK, and other allies to drive innovation and create sustainable solutions to this existential threat.

Secondly, addressing economic stagnation calls for international cooperation on trade, investment, and fiscal policies. By aligning their economic strategies and promoting open and fair trade, democratic nations can create a more robust and resilient global economy that benefits all. This includes addressing unfair practices employed by authoritarian regimes and ensuring that globalization benefits are shared more equitably.

The promotion of democratic values is a cornerstone of the Western liberal order, and Europe must stand united with its allies in defending these principles. By supporting democratic institutions, encouraging political pluralism, and protecting human rights worldwide, the community of democratic nations can counter the rise of authoritarianism and create a more just and stable global order.

Reclaiming Europe’s Role in the Fight for Democracy

In light of the global ideological struggle between democracy and totalitarianism, it is time for Europe to reclaim its role as a champion of liberal democratic values. Instead of seeking strategic autonomy through neutrality or aligning with authoritarian regimes, Europe must commit itself to upholding democracy in the world and standing shoulder to shoulder with its democratic allies.

To achieve this, Europe must first reevaluate its approach to international relations, placing the preservation and promotion of democratic values at the forefront of its agenda. This includes advocating for democracy and human rights in international forums, as well as supporting democratic movements and civil society organizations worldwide.

In the face of the ongoing ideological battle between democracy and totalitarianism, Europe cannot afford to waver in its commitment to its values and its allies.

Europe must work to strengthen its alliances with fellow democracies, such as the United States, the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. These partnerships provide a powerful counterweight to the rise of authoritarianism and offer a united front in defense of shared values. By reaffirming its commitment to these relationships, Europe can demonstrate its resolve to safeguard democracy and deter potential adversaries.

In the face of the ongoing ideological battle between democracy and totalitarianism, Europe cannot afford to waver in its commitment to its values and its allies. By reclaiming its role as a champion of democracy, Europe can help secure the future of the liberal democratic order and create a safer, more just world for generations to come.