Freedom, Responsibility & a Shared Future: President Von der Leyen Powerful Message to Japan's Youth

Summary

In this impactful speech, the speaker reflects on the historical significance of Fukuzawa Yukichi, the founder of CO University, and his core belief in the pursuit of independence and freedom. Drawing parallels to the modern era, the speaker highlights the importance of building resilience in the face of geopolitical instability. Emphasizing the need for a new approach to security, economy, and democracy, the speaker advocates for global cooperation and mutual responsibility. With personal reflections on the pandemic's global impact, the speech urges students to understand their role in a connected world and take responsibility beyond their immediate surroundings.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker expresses deep honor in receiving an honorary doctorate from CO University, emphasizing its prestigious status as the oldest academic institution in the country.
• 😀 The founder of CO University, Fukuzawa Yukichi, is highlighted as an influential figure in shaping Japan's modernization and international connections through education.
• 😀 Fukuzawa's central belief in the pursuit of independence, both personal and national, is stressed as a core theme of his writings, especially in his work 'Outline of a Theory of Civilization.'
• 😀 The speaker draws parallels between the late 19th century and today's world, pointing to regional conflicts, technological advancements, and the rising influence of imperialism and spheres of influence.
• 😀 The current moment in history is seen as a defining point for the rest of the century, with an urgent need to navigate today's challenges rather than relying on old paradigms.
• 😀 Freedom and independence are central to the speaker's vision for the future, particularly for Europe, which is building its own defense, security, economic, and industrial models.
• 😀 The speaker advocates for a new form of independence that focuses on defense, economic growth, and safeguarding democratic values, acknowledging the changing global landscape.
• 😀 Europe is stepping up in areas such as defense, innovation, and protecting democracy, with the speaker emphasizing collaboration to counter illiberalism and external destabilization efforts.
• 😀 The partnership between Europe and Japan is framed as a model of mutual strength and independence, where shared challenges and collaborative efforts build resilience and security.
• 😀 A key message for the students is the idea of global responsibility, exemplified by Europe's collective efforts in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of thinking beyond local boundaries.
• 😀 The speaker concludes by stressing that the future of Europe and Japan lies in fostering a global community where actions taken for the common good benefit everyone, reinforcing Fukuzawa Yukichi's legacy.

Q & A

What is the significance of the honorary doctorate awarded to President Allian?

The honorary doctorate awarded to President Allian is significant because it highlights the long history and global standing of CO University. It also underscores the prestigious nature of the award, given that previous recipients have included notable figures like Dor, Adonawa, and Saharov.

Who was Fukuzawa Yukichi and what was his role in the establishment of CO University?

Fukuzawa Yukichi was the founder of CO University and a key figure in Japan's modernization. He played an instrumental role in Japan’s first diplomatic missions to Europe and the United States and established CO University as a bridge between the East and West, promoting the spread of language and knowledge.

How does Fukuzawa Yukichi’s philosophy of independence apply to the world today?

Fukuzawa Yukichi’s philosophy of independence, both personal and national, remains relevant today as it emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and resilience in the face of global challenges. His ideas on freedom and independence are seen as crucial in navigating the current geopolitical and technological landscape.

What are the parallels between the 19th century and today's world, as highlighted in President Allian’s speech?

The parallels include the return of spheres of influence, the rise of defining technologies, and both the threats and opportunities that mirror those faced 150 years ago. The industrial revolution then and today’s technological innovations both bring transformative changes to societies.

What is President Allian’s view on how Europe should respond to current global challenges?

President Allian believes that Europe must take a proactive approach to its own defense, security, economic model, and democratic values. This includes investing in defense, fostering innovation, and protecting democracies, which are essential for maintaining freedom and prosperity in the 21st century.

How does President Allian define 'independence' for Europe in the context of global partnerships?

President Allian defines 'independence' as the ability to choose one's future freely, reduce dependencies, and strengthen vulnerabilities. This concept of independence does not mean isolation; rather, it involves collaborating with like-minded partners like Japan to ensure mutual strength and security.

What role do Europe and Japan play in strengthening global competitiveness and security?

Europe and Japan are working together to enhance global competitiveness by diversifying supply chains, investing in each other's security, and collaborating on key initiatives like clean technology and digital innovation. This partnership aims to ensure that both regions are resilient to external pressures and can safeguard their mutual interests.

Why is it important for Europe to work with other countries beyond its borders, according to President Allian?

President Allian emphasizes that Europe's strength and independence are bolstered by engaging with other countries. The world’s trade is increasingly global, and by fostering international partnerships, Europe can build resilience against protectionism and other challenges, ensuring a stable and prosperous future.

How does President Allian relate his experience in public health to the global community?

President Allian reflects on his medical background and how, as a public health professional, he learned to look beyond individual needs to the broader patterns affecting entire populations. He draws a parallel between public health and global cooperation, where actions taken for one’s community can benefit others across the globe.

What message does President Allian want to convey to the students of CO University?

President Allian encourages students to recognize their responsibility beyond their immediate surroundings. He emphasizes that their research and actions can have a global impact, and that the world is interconnected. The lesson of taking responsibility for others is central to building a better, more collaborative world.