What Does it Mean to be European? | Robert Phillips | TEDxAUBG

Summary

In this thought-provoking speech, the speaker explores the essence of European identity through the anecdote of an elderly Bulgarian man who asserts his dignity with the phrase, 'I'm a European.' Highlighting the European Union's role as a global superpower of economic, cultural, and political influence, the speaker calls on young Europeans to engage in the democratic process and vote in the upcoming European Parliament elections. The speech emphasizes the importance of upholding European values like freedom, rule of law, and solidarity, urging the audience to define Europe's future through active participation and preserve the principles that make Europe unique.

Takeaways

• 😀 Europeans are defined by a shared sense of identity, shaped by economic, military, and cultural strength.
• 😀 An elderly Bulgarian man once defined being European as a shield of dignity, protection, and rights, especially in the face of injustice.
• 😀 The European Union (EU) was founded to create peace, prosperity, and protection against war through economic cooperation.
• 😀 The EU's economic power is significant, with 515 million citizens and the second-largest GDP in the world.
• 😀 The EU is also a military power, with nearly 2 million personnel and significant defense expenditures.
• 😀 The EU is a cultural powerhouse, contributing iconic art, architecture, music, and cuisine, representing diverse European traditions.
• 😀 The EU is built on principles of freedom, such as freedom of movement, the right to protest, free press, and an independent judiciary.
• 😀 European solidarity, as shown in Bulgaria's presidency of the European Council and Ireland's support during Brexit negotiations, is a defining characteristic of the EU.
• 😀 The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) reflects the EU's commitment to protecting personal data and privacy, influencing businesses globally.
• 😀 Despite its complexities, the EU's decision-making process is vital to maintaining peace and prosperity in Europe, reflecting the diverse and often complicated nature of the union.
• 😀 The future of Europe and its identity is being debated, especially regarding the importance of core democratic values like free press and rule of law. Younger Europeans must actively participate in shaping Europe's future through voting.

Q & A

What was the elderly gentleman's definition of being European?

The elderly gentleman's definition of being European was a sense of dignity and protection. He said, 'You can't do that to me, I'm a European,' indicating that as a European, he felt shielded from abuses by the government, corporations, and even from unfair legal practices.

How does the speaker describe the European Union's economic power?

The speaker describes the European Union as a significant economic power with a population of 515 million people, forming the largest single market in the world, with the second largest GDP globally.

Why is the European Union considered a cultural power?

The European Union is considered a cultural power because it is home to iconic landmarks and traditions, such as the Mona Lisa, Gothic cathedrals, Art Deco buildings, and diverse cultural practices like Fado music and Winter Carnivals.

What is the historical significance of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC)?

The ECSC, established in 1951, was the first major step in European integration. It was not just about economics but about ensuring peace by combining European economies in a way that would prevent future wars on the continent.

What freedoms are Europeans granted through the EU, according to the speaker?

The European Union provides several freedoms to its citizens, such as the freedom to travel, live, and work anywhere within the EU, as well as the freedom to peacefully protest, access a free press, and expect fair trials due to the rule of law and an independent judiciary.

What is the role of solidarity in the European Union?

Solidarity in the European Union is exemplified by actions like the support given to Ireland during Brexit negotiations. Despite differences in size and population, EU member states stand together, showing mutual respect and support in times of need.

How has the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) impacted global business practices?

The GDPR, introduced by the European Union, has revolutionized how businesses handle personal data by granting individuals more control over their personal information. It has forced companies worldwide to adopt stricter privacy practices, with hefty fines for non-compliance.

Why does the speaker criticize the complexity of EU decision-making?

The speaker criticizes the complexity of the EU decision-making process because it can be difficult to understand and is often explained in complicated, bureaucratic language, making it seem distant and disconnected from the everyday lives of Europeans.

What is the significance of the European Parliament elections for young Europeans?

The European Parliament elections are significant for young Europeans because they provide a chance to directly influence the future direction of the European Union. The speaker stresses that despite low voter turnout among young people, their participation is crucial to ensuring that the EU remains aligned with their values and priorities.

What warning does the speaker give about the potential changes to the definition of being European?

The speaker warns that changing the definition of being European could lead to the erosion of core values such as free press, independent judiciary, and the rule of law. He urges Europeans to be cautious of proposals that would undermine these fundamental principles in an attempt to solve modern challenges.