Europe Day: Progressives stand up for democracy, solidarity and dignity

On this Europe Day, as Europe marks 40 years since the first official celebrations of the occasion, the Party of European Socialists (PES) reaffirms its commitment to the core values that define the European project - democracy, solidarity, equality and social justice - at a time when they are increasingly under pressure, including from far-right narratives that seek to divide our societies, erode democratic values and weaken solidarity across Europe.

As geopolitical instability rises, democratic norms are challenged, and economic uncertainty continues to affect citizens across the continent, progressives underline that the European Union must remain a force for protection, fairness and unity.

PES President, Stefan Löfven, said:

"Europe was never meant to be taken for granted. It was built as a promise of peace, of democracy, and of dignity for all. Today, that promise is being tested.

In a world marked by growing uncertainty, rising inequality, and increasing pressure on our democracies, we will always stand up for a Europe that protects, that unites, and that delivers for its people."

Recent developments across Europe and globally have shown the urgency of reinforcing democratic resilience, safeguarding the rule of law, and ensuring that the European project continues to deliver tangible improvements in people's lives.

This commitment has been clearly reflected in initiatives such as the first edition of the Global Progressive Mobilisation (GPM), held in Barcelona last April, which brought together progressive leaders and partners from across continents to strengthen cooperation and advance a shared response to today's global challenges.

On this Europe Day, the PES calls for renewed political determination to build a stronger, fairer and more resilient Europe: one that stands firm in defending its values against those who seek to undermine them.