ESO: We must defend and uphold the European project

The Party of European Socialists (PES) welcomes the declaration commemorating the 80^th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, drafted by our partner organisation, the European Seniors Organisation (ESO). In their declaration, the ESO calls upon society to uphold democracy and to not allow cooperation amongst European member states to be stalled by those pushing a far-right agenda.

Representing the senior branch of the PES family, members of the ESO grew up during and in the aftermath of the destruction of the Second World War. Having witnessed the havoc wreaked upon our continent by fascism and tyranny, leaving Europe both scorched and scarred by those consumed by hate. Members of the ESO have seen firsthand how populists can manipulate societies into turning on one another in the name of toxic nationalism. And above all, ESO members know a life before European integration, and the peril we face should we allow the far-right to dismantle the European Union and all efforts to bring peace among its member states.

In their declaration, the ESO warns of the very real threat facing European stability and security. Efforts must be made to strengthen European unity, cooperation, and solidarity. It is essential that democracy is reinforced both for this generation and those to come.

Those who do not learn from history, are doomed to repeat it. The PES stands side by side with the ESO in their call for solidarity, inclusive societies, democracy, and fundamental rights to be strengthened.

Click here to see ESO's video commemorating the 80^th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.