Opinion

“Ideas shape the world. A wider conversation
makes it a better place.”

Politics

Europe’s Test
Is a Stronger Union,
Not a Looser One

In a more dangerous world, Europe’s answer cannot be retreat or fragmentation. It must be a deeper, more confident union — one that turns shared challenges into lasting strength.

Helena Krauss

By Helena KraussColumnist

For too long, Europe has confused dependency with stability. The shocks of the past three years have exposed the costs of that illusion — and the opportunity in front of us. A stronger, more integrated Union is not a utopian ambition, but a practical necessity for an uncertain age.

Business

Productivity, Not Panic:
A Smarter AI Future

Artificial intelligence will not replace human judgment — if we choose augmentation over alarm.

Julian Mercer

By Julian MercerColumnist

Artificial intelligence provokes two extremes: utopian hype and dystopian fear. Both miss the real story. AI is a general-purpose technology — powerful, yes, but valuable only when paired with human judgment, institutional trust and a clear sense of purpose.

World

A More Confident Europe in a
Stormy World

From crisis to agency: the continent can shape its own future.

Elise Donovan

By Elise DonovanColumnist

The world is entering a more volatile era, but Europe is not merely reacting — it is repositioning. By investing in its people, its industries and its alliances, the Union can turn uncertainty into strategic advantage and speak with a clearer, more confident voice on the global stage.

Cities

How Cities Build
Resilience from Below

People walking in a city park

From green infrastructure to community-led renewal, cities are proving that a more livable, adaptive future is within reach.

By Priya Desai
6 min read

✉ Letters to the editor

More perspectives

A Stronger Europe Requires Hard Choices

Helena Krauss

By Helena KraussColumnist

Europe stands at a turning point. The return of great-power rivalry, persistent instability on our borders and rapid technological change have ended the illusion that our security and prosperity can be taken for granted. The choices we make in the next few years will shape not only our economic future, but also the kind of continent we want to be.

The Currency of a Healthier Democracy

Julian Mercer

By Julian MercerColumnist

In an age of doubt, rebuilding trust is Europe’s most urgent and underrated task. Trust in governments, institutions and traditional media has fallen to historic lows. Rebuilding that trust will require competence, transparency and accountability from our leaders.

AI Can Enrich European Lives — If We Choose Wisely

Marcus Chen

By Marcus ChenColumnist

The benefits of artificial intelligence will only be realised if Europe puts people, rights and shared prosperity at the centre. AI should be a tool for people, not a threat to their freedoms. If we get this right, technological progress and human dignity can go hand in hand.

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