Christos Floros

Blog

  • Will We Choose Unity or Fragmentation?

    Will We Choose Unity or Fragmentation?

    The very foundation of our shared project, the European Union, faces unprecedented challenges.

    From the east, the shadow of war looms large. Our internal unity is strained by economic disparities and cultural differences. Populist movements whisper siren songs of nationalism, tempting us with the illusion of a simpler past.

    But let’s be clear: the past is not a country we can return to. It’s a quaint postcard, sure, but its sepia-toned streets hold no answers for the complexities of the 21st century. The challenges we face demand not isolation, but collective action, shared responsibility, and yes, unity.

    Think of the EU as a grand tapestry, woven from threads of diverse cultures, languages, and histories. Each strand is beautiful in its own right, but it’s their intricate intertwining that creates the masterpiece. Imagine what happens if we start pulling at those threads, unraveling the fabric of our union. The result wouldn’t be a return to individual glory, but a descent into a fragmented continent, vulnerable to external forces and internal strife.

    This is not just about economics or security, though both are crucial. It’s about the very soul of Europe, its commitment to democracy, human rights, and the peaceful resolution of conflict. These values, hard-won through centuries of struggle, are not luxuries to be discarded in times of hardship. They are the beating heart of our shared identity, the foundation upon which we must build our future.

    So, what is to be done? The answer is simple, yet demanding: we must recommit to the project of European unity. This doesn’t mean blind uniformity, but rather a celebration of our diversity within a framework of shared goals and values.

    We need to bridge the economic divides that fuel resentment and populism. We need to strengthen our common defenses in the face of external threats. But most importantly, we need to reignite the flame of hope and possibility that drew us together in the first place.

    This won’t be easy. It will require compromise, sacrifice, and a renewed faith in the power of cooperation. But the alternative – a fractured, inward-looking Europe – is unthinkable.

    The future of Europe is not predetermined. It is in our hands. Will we choose unity or fragmentation? The choice is ours, and the time to act is now.

    Let’s show the world what a united Europe can achieve. Let’s make our tapestry stronger, more vibrant, and more beautiful than ever before.

    Together,

    Christos Floros

  • “2024 is history in the making” interview with Chronicle.lu

    “2024 is history in the making” interview with Chronicle.lu

    Chronicle.lu: In a context of geopolitical and economic uncertainty, plus taking into account Eurosceptic/anti-Europe narratives (talks of EU exits – and this being the first European election since the 1970s without the UK) and the fact that this is a “record” year for elections worldwide, why do you feel it is important that more people (not least potential first-time voters) head to the polls in June 2024?

    Christos Floros: Voting is our civic duty. It’s how we shape the future of our society, at every scale, locally, nationally, internationally. In democratic societies, at least. Here in Luxembourg, citizens are required to vote.

    If we could legally make every resident vote, I believe we would. Because in Luxembourg we really do see it as a duty, if you live and work in this country, we want you to take responsibility for it, too.

    2024 is history in the making. The year they’ll point to in the future and say, “That’s when we stood up for democracy” or the opposite. The latter option, well, let’s just say Trump getting re-elected, makes it scarily possible. Remember, he was elected after the shockwave of Brexit, right?

    This year, Europe should send a different kind of shockwave to the US. A nod to our American allies, a message that says, “Hey, we’re still building that post-WWII world together.” A wake-up call. And guess how we do that? Electing pro-EU leaders across our Union in June.

    We gotta rekindle that commitment in Europe. Our peace, our freedom, our freedom of movement, our Erasmus, our shared prosperity, all these things, we’ve achieved together, we’ve got to remind every single European that this only works, when we work together and when politicians are also willing to take responsibility for what didn’t go as planned, what we didn’t get right. Otherwise, we are going to leave the field free for the far right… And those who scream “no more Europe” are basically condemning us all. We, as individual nations, can’t navigate this new world we are entering, alone. […] We live in a world of giants now, and going it solo for any of us is a recipe for disaster. We can and will continue to love and cherish our homelands, celebrate our traditions, and at the same time we must continue to aspire to build our bigger selves together. We need more Union today, than we needed in the 90’s or the 2000s.

    This is not just an election, it’s a chance to shape history. It’s our opportunity to show the world that Europe is still a beacon of hope, collaboration, and progress […] And that’s why I want everyone to sign up to vote before 15 April, to vote on 9 June.

    Read the full interview: https://chronicle.lu/category/politics/48625-change-for-luxembourg-founder-discusses-importance-of-european-elections

  • Luxembourg: Small Country, Big Vision for Europe.

    Luxembourg: Small Country, Big Vision for Europe.

    In Luxembourg we know our size doesn’t define our impact, especially when it comes to Europe.

    We were there at the start, Schuman’s dream woven into our country’s fabric. Now, on June 9th, it’s time to raise our voices again, not just because it’s our right, but because our vote truly steers the future of a united Europe.

    Anyone still remember the struggles our grandparents and parents faced, divided by borders?

    Today, thanks to the EU, we hop across those same borders for work, study, even love, with barely a blink. Schengen, a cornerstone of that freedom, was signed right here in our backyard.

    That’s our legacy, built brick by brick with our European partners, showing the power of working together.

    We, the generation raised on a united Europe, need to remind ourselves and others what we’ve gained: cleaner air, stronger economies, Erasmus adventures that opened our eyes to the world. These aren’t distant concepts, they’re the realities that shape our lives.

    However, the rising tide of nationalism threatens to wash away these achievements. We see it across Europe, and even here in Luxembourg too, unfortunately. But here’s the thing: Luxembourg, small but fierce, has always stood up to bullies. We did it before, and we can do it again, not with fists, but with our votes, all together, as one diverse, united, European country.

    On June 9th, let’s cast our ballots for a progressive, social-liberal Europe. Let’s honour the vision of our founding fathers and mothers, reject the divisive voices, and weave the future of Europe, stronger than ever before.

    Our vote, like our voice, is powerful. Let’s use it to remind everyone, from Vianden to Differdange, from Luxembourg City to Troisvierges, and from Lisbon to Vilnius, that a united Europe isn’t just possible, it’s essential.

    Letz get voting!

    C

  • A hero of democracy: Alexey Navalny

    A hero of democracy: Alexey Navalny

    With heavy hearts we must pay tribute to a fearless advocate for democracy and human rights – Alexey Navalny.

    Navalny’s journey was not just a personal struggle against corruption and oppression but a symbol of resistance that resonated globally.

    The world watched in shock and disbelief as Navalny faced a nerve agent poisoning in 2020, a sinister attempt to silence his voice. Despite the grave risks, he chose to return to Russia in 2021, fully aware that he would be met with hostility and danger.

    His subsequent imprisonment and harsh sentences only strengthened his resolve, as seen in his recent court appearance in January 2024, where he faced adversity with remarkable spirit.

    Navalny paid the ultimate price for his unwavering commitment to justice and democracy.

    His life and sacrifice should serve as a rallying cry for all of us who believe in the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

    May Alexey Navalny’s legacy inspire us all to continue the fight for a better, more just world.

    In solidarity,

    Christos

  • We welcome Greece to the Ranks of Marriage Equality Champions

    We welcome Greece to the Ranks of Marriage Equality Champions

    In a historic moment for human rights, Greece has become the 16th EU member state to legislate marriage equality, joining us in Luxembourg in championing the fundamental right to love.

    For decades, the LGBTQ+ community in Greece has tirelessly campaigned for marriage equality in a socially conservative landscape. And now, the bill, passed by 176 lawmakers, grants same-sex couples the right to wed and adopt children, marking a historic shift in Greek society.

    As Greece takes its place among the most progressive countries in the world, citizens are expressing pride in the nation’s evolution. This pride must serve as a testament to the transformative power of legislative change in shaping societal mindsets, even if it’s painfully slow; together we make progress happen, as best we can.

    As we celebrate this victory, let it serve as a reminder of the importance of standing up for fundamental rights, speaking out against discrimination, and fostering a world where love knows no bounds. May Greece’s proud moment inspire other nations to embrace progress, understanding, and the universal right to love freely.

    Bravo Greece.

    Love is Love.

    C

  • Luxembourg’s Social Elections: Your Voice Matters

    Luxembourg’s Social Elections: Your Voice Matters

    Over 600,000 individuals work, retire, learn, and seek employment in Luxembourg.

    Every five years, the Social Elections are a unique opportunity for employees, retirees, and job seekers to shape the course of their representation at both the company and national levels.

    The social elections are a chance for you to actively participate in the decisions that impact your daily life.

    Why should you participate in the Social Elections?

    • Protect Your Purchasing Power:
      • Your vote influences the CSL’s advocacy for policies that safeguard your economic interests and maintain your purchasing power. By actively engaging in the Social Elections, you contribute to the resilience of your financial well-being.
    • Secure Your Retirement:
      • Concerned about your future? Your participation in the elections empowers the CSL to address retirement-related issues, ensuring that your concerns about the golden years are acknowledged and addressed.
    • Be Informed about Your Rights:
      • Knowledge is power. By voting, you express your desire to stay informed about your rights in the workplace, contributing to a system where transparency and awareness prevail.

    Who can participate?

    The answer is simple: Everyone (almost). In March 2024, whether you are a working professional, retiree, apprentice, or job seeker, regardless of your nationality or residence, you have the right to partake in the largest election in Luxembourg.

    The Social Elections are a collective opportunity to shape the narrative of Luxembourg’s workforce and society.

    Your voice matters, your concerns deserve attention, and your active participation ensures that the CSL continues to be a steadfast advocate for your well-being.

    Let’s make our voices heard in these elections too and contribute to a Luxembourg that reflects the aspirations of its diverse and dynamic population.