So many obstacles surpassed, so many memories to share. As on any continent, there where wars and conflicts. But, and that is what might distinguish Europe somehow, no matter how long it took, those wars led to treaties and finally long lasting alliances. Discovering the prosperity of peace we evolved as a continent. Economically, culturally and intellectually. It took a while, but about 150 years later we finally embraced tolerance, and we soon were to evolve once more, this time not one by one in the same biotope, no. We merged to a symbiosis of countries, religions and ideas. So many times being faced with the choice between common purpose and isolation by singularity, our ancestors wisely chose the former. And so countries evolved to the construct we now call European Union.

And once more we are to make a choice. A decision affecting, this time not only the fate of an entire continent, but as it is the future of our already irreversibly linked world order.

We are an Economic and Monetary union. But contrary to the role model known from other economic areas, the European Economic Area is neither homogenous nor are the same economic and social policies yet applied, leading to dramatic differences in national economies, personal income and living standards.

There are no problems – only tasks there are, once someone told me. The tasks are numerous but inevitable and after all linked to another. The financial crisis has been quite a drag and, to be honest, is still going to keep us sleepless for some time. Nevertheless it gives opportunity to clearly overthink our strategy considering our economic area. Taken certain theories we therefore must have some kind of financial compensation for the weaker links in our economic chain. Whereas the typically industry strong countries obviously form the stronger links, they turn rusty as well. Sustainability is pretty tricky when hosting a large part of the Union’s industry. But enough about tasks for industry and economy. After all Europe is its people. I can’t see Europe without Europeans. But how to feel European when social and educational policies are as different from country to country as they are. Besides it is imaginably difficult to identify with a headless rider. European politics is as far from its citizens as Mars.

Democracy. There is no doubt that our Union is a democratic construction. But democracy misunderstood, if understood at all, won’t get far. People, or better, citizens must understand how they may participate and influence governmental decisions affecting themselves. European politics ought to be an everyday reason for conversation. Example? Certainly! There are more standards for certain fruits and vegetables than for firearms… Now that is something worth a discussion! Another idea would be actively representing E.U. politics also in popcorn-media. I plead also, probably for many others as well, to explain the electoral system in an understandable way even for people without a B.A. in politics. And not to forget about campaigning.

After all, let’s face it: foreign policies throughout Europe may as well be treated as the Union’s national affairs. Living standard differences drifting apart are not an option, for a strong unity. Income, expenses and health coverage must be on a fair scale without larger discrepancies and the equality of chances must reach a fair level between the member states. Although this might sound like giving up sovereignty, leaving everything to Mommy-Europe, I must disappoint you. Cultural variety is one of our greatest assets, and therefore a national identity indispensable.

Education is the key able to open doors to understanding. It seems the lock needs a bit of cleaning though. Picture a fair educational system throughout Europe. I see A-levels and B.A.s being form Greece or Italy being acknowledged as A-levels or B.A.s in Germany or France. Simplicity goes a long way. Have a go on one scheme? On the other hand education may be used to introduce other neighboring cultures and learning from the very begin- 8 ning alongside the mother tongue also one common language (for example English). Common experience ties tight bonds, especially if you can communicate them…

For our future I wish nothing more than a brotherly, tolerant, understanding, strong, independent and sustainable Europe. Many tasks there are and so little time. Nevertheless if anyone can, we can. The ideas of a respectful society, equality of opportunity and an environmentally friendly energy source are closer than ever. Once more we are to decide. The future lies in our very own hands. To share and prosper together, or to stand still in mischief and jealousy. There are many tasks but also many to solve them. But the time will only last if we work together, closer than we ever have. It is our choice.