Munich – ESI at Café Luitpold on the importance of European unity

9 June 2026
Café Luitpold. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Café Luitpold. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

ESI’s Gerald Knaus gave a presentation on European freedom and integration as part of the cultural program of Café Luitpold in Munich.

Gerald argued that the European project is under greater pressure than at any time since the end of the Cold War. For decades, integration helped turn former rivals into partners and made Europe more peaceful, prosperous, and stable. However, these achievements are now being challenged by authoritarian and nationalist movements both inside and outside Europe.

He pointed to Russia’s war against Ukraine and the growing influence of nationalist politics across the West as signs of a changing political landscape. In this situation, Gerald argued, supporters of democracy and European cooperation need to speak more clearly about what integration has achieved and why it matters.

Europe’s peace, freedom, and prosperity are not guaranteed, he concluded. Preserving them requires confidence in the European idea and a renewed commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.