Christos Floros

Tag: Christos Floros Luxembourg

  • Addressing Global Wealth Inequality and Global Tax Evasion

    Addressing Global Wealth Inequality and Global Tax Evasion

    Few challenges loom as large as wealth inequality. The staggering chasm between the world’s haves and have-nots demands innovative solutions and steadfast commitment.

    It is imperative for the EU to spearhead initiatives combating global wealth inequality, grounded in the social-liberal ethos that defines us. I believe that Luxembourg’s international financial know-how can play a constructive role to help shape a vision where financial expertise converges with social justice.

    A social-liberal EU direction can deliver a more equitable global economic order.

    1. Progressive Global Taxation and fighting Tax Evasion:
      In true social-liberal spirit, the EU can join the US and others in championing the cause of progressive global taxation and ensure tax evasion is fought throughout the world. We must call for tax policies that pave the way for a more equitable and optimised distribution of resources, within an economically free, but always socially responsible and accountable market. This resonates with our commitment to individual freedoms and equal opportunities, and protection against monopolies.
    2. Responsible Business Practices:
      ALDE and ‘Renew Europe’ advocate for a dynamic and responsible business landscape. The EU can lead the charge by instituting frameworks that foster ethical practices—fair wages, ethical sourcing, and eco-friendly operations.
    3. Developing Countries:
      The EU must intensify support for developing friends. Fair trade, educational investments, and debt relief are not mere policies; they’re expressions of social and humane solidarity.
  • Human Rights have no borders

    Human Rights have no borders

    Human rights serve as the unshakable foundation of a just and fair society, safeguarding the inherent value and dignity of every individual human. These fundamental rights transcend borders and contexts.

    They represent ‘assured freedoms’, not bestowed upon us by nature, but meticulously defined by the laws and rules we’ve collectively fought for and championed. To defend human rights is to recognize their fragility, acknowledging that they are not automatic features of our existence. Instead, they are guaranteed by our collective commitment to protect and uphold them. It’s a shared responsibility that extends beyond individual interests and national boundaries.

    The phrase ‘assured freedoms’ encapsulates the essence of human rights – freedoms we’ve not stumbled upon but have actively secured through concerted efforts. The assurance of these rights depends on our dedication to defend and uphold them.

    Failure to safeguard these rights constitutes a collective forfeiture, putting at risk the hard-earned fabric of justice and equality. The price of silence or indifference is the erosion of the very principles that have been woven into the societal tapestry through painstaking struggles and relentless advocacy.

    The defense of human rights is not merely a duty; it is a collective responsibility that binds us together in the pursuit of a world where dignity, justice, and equality prevail.

  • Luxembourg’s Old-Age Dependency Ratio

    Luxembourg’s Old-Age Dependency Ratio

    Luxembourg, is modestly redefining the demographic narrative within the EU. The reason is clear and precise: its old-age dependency ratio is the envy of our neighbors, and it all boils down to a strategic influx of a young, tax-paying, (and mostly European) workforce.

    This isn’t a stroke of luck; it’s policy at its most pragmatic. Luxembourg has cracked the code by actively courting a diverse pool of skilled workers, predominantly from within Europe. Unlike many EU nations grappling with an aging population, Luxembourg has managed to sustain a robust balance between its elderly and working-age citizens.

    The secret lies in the numbers: a workforce that not only contributes to the nation’s economic prosperity but also ensures a manageable burden on its social support systems. In Luxembourg, the elderly aren’t an impending crisis; they’re a population well-supported by the vibrant and tax-generating younger demographic.

    As we gear up for the EU elections in June 2024, Luxembourg’s success story holds crucial lessons. It’s not just about economic growth; it’s about ensuring that the backbone of this success, the young and tax-paying workforce, actively participates in shaping the future of the European Union.

    The call to action is clear: this demographic segment, largely responsible for Luxembourg’s enviable old-age dependency ratio, must not be sidelined in the democratic process. Their voices, their concerns, and their votes need to reverberate in the upcoming elections. The very demographic that has propelled Luxembourg to its unique position is the key to navigating the challenges of an aging population across the EU.

    Ahead of June 2024, register to vote for the European elections in Luxembourg on June 9, and then as we step into the polling booths, let’s not forget the lesson from our country: a thriving, engaged, and diverse workforce is not just an economic asset; it’s the linchpin of a sustainable demographic future for the European Union.

  • Renew Europe’s EU Reform Vision

    Renew Europe’s EU Reform Vision

    The European Union is at a critical juncture, seeking to evolve its governance structure and further its capacity for unified action. Amidst this discussion, our country’s role as an EU capital looms large, not just geographically but symbolically—a meeting ground of diverse cultures and a linchpin for European unity.

    The proposed reforms, advocated by Renew Europe, present a bold vision for a more robust European Union. They prioritize enhancing European democracy, amending Article 7, and extending competences to propel the EU towards increased effectiveness and adaptability.

    While I support the reforms, I respectfully dissent on the proposal to rename the Commission as the ‘Executive’. Preserving the name ‘Commission’ maintains a sense of familiarity and continuity, crucial for the EU’s relationship with its citizens. Changing it might inadvertently detach the Commission from the recognition it has garnered.

    What’s being proposed?

    • European Democracy Enhancement
    • Amend Article 7 for better protection of common values.
    • Remove unanimity requirement.
    • Set clear deadlines for Council action.
    • Grant European Court of Justice authority in violations.
    • Introduction of EU Referendum
    • Aim to involve citizens in critical EU decisions.
    • Empowerment of European Parliament
    • Grant right of initiative for the Parliament to propose legislation.
    • New Competences
    • Establishment of Defense Union and Energy Union.
    • Exclusive competences in environment, biodiversity, and climate change agreements.
    • Shared competences in public health, civil protection, industry, and education.
    • EU Institution Reforms
    • Elimination of unanimity rule in the Council.
    • Introduction of a new Qualified Majority Vote system.
    • Proposal to restructure the Commission to an ‘Executive’ with 15 members, with the President appointed by the Parliament and confirmed by the Council.
  • More Democracy for Young People

    More Democracy for Young People

    As someone deeply rooted in the fabric of European culture and governance, the initiative of MOREin24 Luxembourg strikes a resounding chord within me.

    Growing up surrounded by the intricate workings of European institutions, having had the privilege of witnessing the functioning of the EU from a very young age, I am elated to share my experience and support this groundbreaking effort aimed at encouraging wider participation in the forthcoming EU Elections of 2024 from young people across Luxembourg.

    The event on November 15th, at Melia Luxembourg, organised in collaboration with Change for Luxembourg, promises to be connect young changemakers. Short, inspiring talks in under 15 minutes will be coupled with invaluable insights, fostering an environment conducive to exchanging ideas and perspectives among attendees.

    MOREin24 Luxembourg represents a movement dedicated to bridging the gap between Luxembourg’s youth and critical topics such as youth engagement, voter participation, and the European Union.

    Supported by the European Parliament and spearheaded by the European Youth Card Association (EYCA), the initiative aims to evoke a tidal wave of change, instigating a call to action among young citizens and residents. It strives to embolden them to embrace their inherent right to engage in the democratic process.

    The heart of MOREin24 Luxembourg lies in its mission to ensure that the voice of every member of society resonates in the upcoming EU Elections in Luxembourg.

    This launch marks a pivotal moment in empowering our diverse communities in Luxembourg to drive change.

    I invite you to join us in championing active engagement in the EU Elections 2024. Let us collectively ensure that every voice is heard and every citizen feels empowered to shape the destiny of our shared European landscape.

    Together, we can ignite a movement that reverberates far beyond the ballot box, propelling change and progress across our continent.

  • Europe’s Shift to Renewables & Energy Independence

    Europe’s Shift to Renewables & Energy Independence

    The drive towards renewable energy sources is not just a climate imperative but also a strategic move for Europe’s energy independence. The transition to renewables is pivotal in liberating Europe from traditional energy dependencies and securing its self-reliance in the energy sector. This shift marks a crucial step towards reshaping the continent’s energy landscape, bolstering its autonomy, and ensuring a more stable, sustainable future.

    Embracing sustainable energy options enables Europe to balance the climate crisis and curtail its dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels, minimizing vulnerability to fluctuating global energy markets and geopolitical tensions. The abundance and predictability of these renewable sources offer Europe a path towards greater energy autonomy and environmental resilience.

    Solar energy, with its vast potential and accessibility across Europe, stands as a key in this shift towards independence. The harnessing of solar power not only mitigates the environmental impact but also decentralizes energy production, empowering communities and nations to generate their electricity. This transition fosters a more self-reliant energy infrastructure, reducing Europe’s susceptibility to disruptions in the global energy supply chain.

    Wind energy, is another significant component of Europe’s journey towards energy independence, and continues to offer immense promise. Its harnessing across the continent’s coastal and open spaces provides a diversified energy portfolio, lessening dependence on imported energy. Wind power’s fairly consistent availability and technological advancements can drive Europe closer to self-sufficiency, contributing to a more secure and stable energy future.

    Hydro power, a proven, and reliable renewable energy source, further underlines Europe’s quest for autonomy. Investment in innovative hydroelectric technologies amplifies Europe’s energy independence, and can help ensure a more self-reliant power supply.

    This strategic shift towards renewable energy is further amplified by the imperative to bolster energy efficiency measures. Enhancing efficiency across industries and buildings is pivotal in reducing energy waste, optimizing consumption, and ensuring Europe’s energy self-sufficiency. By investing in energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices, Europe should and will fortifiy its energy independence, reduce reliance on external energy sources and fortify its energy resilience.

    For a self-sufficient, stable, and sustainable energy future for Europe.