Christos Floros

Tag: Politics

  • Unified Action Needed in Ukraine, Gaza. Global Security at Risk.

    Unified Action Needed in Ukraine, Gaza. Global Security at Risk.

    The intersections of military support, human rights, and diplomatic strategies are more intricate and critical than ever. We are witness to escalating crises across various conflict zones—from Ukraine and Gaza to South Sudan— and it becomes increasingly evident that our collective response must be both robust and nuanced. Addressing these challenges effectively requires a deep understanding of their complexities and a commitment to coordinated international action.

    The conflict in Ukraine has evolved into a focal point of European and global security dynamics. We know the aggression faced by Ukraine is not just a regional issue but a direct challenge to the principles underpinning international order. The stability of Europe hinges on Ukraine’s ability to resist and counter this war of aggression. Continued military support for Ukraine is not just an act of solidarity; it is a strategic imperative for maintaining European security. Germany’s decision to halve support is one that finds me in absolute disagreement.

    Ukraine’s outcome will significantly influence the future security landscape of Europe. Our support should continue to send a clear message about the commitment to upholding the sovereignty of nations and resisting any attempts to redraw borders through force in the 21st century. The European Union and NATO must continue to work together to ensure Ukraine remains resilient in the face of aggression, as this will directly impact the stability and security of the European continent.

    Human rights in conflict zones remain an area of profound concern. Whether in Ukraine, Gaza, or South Sudan, the fundamental rights of civilians must be preserved, even amidst the chaos of war. The protection of non-combatants and adherence to international humanitarian law are not merely theoretical principles but practical necessities for ensuring human dignity and mitigating the suffering of those caught in conflict. Our failure there speaks volumes.

    In Ukraine, reports of civilian casualties and infrastructure destruction underscore the urgent need for humanitarian corridors and aid. In Gaza, the dire conditions faced by civilians highlight the importance of ensuring that humanitarian needs are met while pursuing peace. Similarly, in South Sudan, where ongoing violence exacerbates the humanitarian crisis, international organizations must be empowered to provide relief and advocate for the protection of vulnerable populations.

    The international community must reinforce its commitment to human rights by ensuring that humanitarian principles guide military and political strategies. This includes supporting organizations that deliver aid, advocating for ceasefires to facilitate humanitarian access, and holding accountable those who violate human rights laws. The preservation of human rights amidst conflict is not optional but a fundamental aspect of our shared humanity.

    The conflict between Israel and Gaza has long been a subject of intense scrutiny, and recent developments have only intensified the need for strategic engagement. The situation in Gaza presents a clear challenge, in balancing security concerns with humanitarian imperatives.

    As I continue to follow these developments closely, it is clear that any resolution must address both immediate and long-term issues. The humanitarian impact on Gaza’s population is severe (not including the devastating death toll), and efforts to alleviate this suffering must be part of a broader strategy that includes achieving sustainable peace. This requires not only addressing current hostilities but also laying the groundwork for a lasting resolution that ensures security for Israel and justice for the Palestinian people.

    In the context of the ongoing conflict, it is more important than ever for NATO, the European Union, and the United States to work closely with Israel. This collaboration should focus on achieving Israel’s legitimate security objectives while also facilitating a resolution that addresses the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and ends the current bombing campaign.

    A comprehensive approach should include efforts to secure the safe return of hostages and to negotiate a ceasefire that halts the destruction in Gaza. This strategy must be part of a broader peace initiative that seeks to address the underlying issues of the conflict. The goal should be to achieve a balanced and sustainable resolution that ensures Israel’s security while addressing the needs and aspirations of the Palestinian people.

    The consensus among experts is clear: Israel’s long-term safety and stability are inextricably linked to the establishment of an independent and viable Palestinian state. The two-state solution remains the most feasible path to achieving a lasting peace. This solution envisions a sovereign Palestinian state coexisting peacefully alongside Israel, with both nations recognized and secure within internationally accepted borders.

    Supporting Israel’s security involves more than just addressing immediate threats; it requires a commitment to the principles of justice and self-determination for the Palestinian people. Working toward a two-state solution is not merely a diplomatic goal but a necessary component of ensuring a stable and secure future for both Israelis and Palestinians.

    We must of course be careful in understanding the context and the multitude of players involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The situation is shaped by a complex web of influences, including not only Hamas and its impact in Gaza but also regional actors like Iran and Hezbollah. These groups, along with various proxies and third-party interests, all play significant roles in the dynamics of the conflict, and are actively participating. In fact the real possibility of a Lebanon-Israel war, once again is incredibly worrying. Recognizing and addressing these diverse influences is essential for developing a well-rounded approach to achieving peace and security, as it ensures that the strategies we implement are informed by the full spectrum of regional and international interests.

    It is imperative that the international community, through unified and informed action, addresses these issues with both urgency and empathy. Our collective efforts will not only shape the future of the regions directly affected but also set a precedent for how global challenges can be met with solidarity and strategic vision.

  • What next for Western Civilisation?

    What next for Western Civilisation?

    Hello,

    Our Western civilisation spans thousands of years, progress and conflict. If we want to retain any hope of navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead, we must be willing to understand our shared past.

    Our collective story is one of remarkable resilience and ingenuity. We are the bearers of a rich heritage of values and achievements. From the early agricultural societies and city-states of Ancient Greece to the Roman Empire and the transformative periods of the Renaissance, Enlightenment, and of course the Industrial Revolution, we have continuously reinvented ourselves.

    Today, our European Union and the United States represent the pinnacle of this long history of innovation, democracy, and social progress. Together, we embody the aspirations and achievements of countless generations. But what’s next?

    Today, I feel a deep sense of anxiety about our present and future. I’m alarmed by the many members of our societies that do not appreciate the profound historical context and the continuous struggle that has brought us to this point. The cyclical patterns of unity and disunity, progress and regress, are reminders of the fragility of our social fabric, but I refuse to believe decline is inevitable.

    Indeed, throughout history, periods of remarkable unity and progress have often been followed by phases of disunity and regression. The fall of the Roman Empire, the religious wars of the Reformation, the World Wars of the 20th century…

    Within nations, social progress and regress are intimately tied to the dynamics of income inequality. When wealth and opportunities are unevenly distributed, social tensions inevitably rise, leading to disunity and conflict. Par example, the Industrial Revolution brought unprecedented technological and economic advancements, but it also led to significant social strife due to the harsh working conditions and vast economic disparities it created. Similarly, today, growing income inequality threatens to undermine the social cohesion and stability of our societies.

    We must, at first those of us who seek to lead, and then those we must convince to let us guide, recognise, that our shared evolution has always been a balance between harnessing progress and managing its consequences, and of course that it includes dark pages too.

    Social justice, equity, and inclusivity are not just lofty ideals; they are essential components of a stable and prosperous society. Ensuring that the benefits of progress are widely shared is crucial to maintaining social harmony and preventing the cycles of disunity and conflict that have plagued us in the past.

    I firmly believe that we must lead with hope and determination.

    The European Union, as a project, though facing significant challenges, is a beacon of what can be achieved through unity and cooperation. The recent waves of nationalism and populism, which threaten to unravel the fabric of European unity, must serve as a warning.

    We must counter these trends with a renewed commitment to the principles of solidarity, inclusivity, and shared progress.

    Only through unity can we overcome the monumental challenges we face, from climate change and economic inequality to political instability and social injustice.

    The long-term survival of Western civilisation depends on our ability to learn from our shared past and apply those lessons to our present and future.

    If we truly hope, to, long-term, help achieve a planetary civilisation that honours our rich, diverse heritage and paves the way for generations to come, we’ve got to ensure we avoid decline now, protect our progress thus far, look at the big picture, and ensure we are capable of being part of the global stage in the future.

    Until next time,

    Christos FLOROS

  • Who wants to lead?

    Who wants to lead?

    Hello,

    The elections are over.

    But those of us who are engaged in politics know that elections are never over.

    That democracy is not a periodic appointment, but a constant, passionate, selfless and demanding engagement. Because democracy is simply the electoral system that allows participatory selection of leadership, but leadership is required throughout.

    I will continue to do my best, to contribute to our young country’s and our Union’s present and future, and to offer you reasons to participate and get engaged yourselves. My engagement did not begin a month ago, and will certainly not seize now.

    I’m grateful and thankful to all those who supported our effort, and I’m convinced that with your engagement, our generation will finally be able to take its future in its own hands.

    State of Affairs, Technology and Misinformation

    The situation in Europe worries me, and should worry us all. Whilst we enjoy some of the highest standards of living in the world, we have become complacent and susceptible to those who seek to divide us, and exploit our weaknesses.

    The extremes are polarising us, by amplifying our fears and using each other to drive us further apart. The moderate political centre, from socialists to conservatives, is being pulled further and further apart. Moderation, consensus, policies by and for all, are out — those who shout louder want increasingly, entirely different things.

    This is happening across Europe and across most Western liberal democracies. It’s not the first time our societies reach such a breaking point, however I still hope this time around we’ll be able to handle these situations more efficiently. After all, we’ve never had as much technology, never had the power to communicate as instantly, and never been as enabled to be informed and rally against a common cause (and unfortunately, empowered by the same technology to be misinformed and divided).

    Western leadership is dwindling, and that worries me for the world’s stability. Just look at who’s in Borgo Egnazia for the G7 today. Those who are dividing us internally, those politicians and the politics of division and finger pointing, those who claim to want to sustain every part of the system that supports us, whilst breaking and changing every part of it: they simply can’t. You can’t have your cake and eat it. Only moderates get that. And we’ve done a terrible job of communicating this.

    The Lack of Meaningful Debate

    Which brings me back to our elections. Where was the debate? Personally, if it weren’t for my own social media and online presence, which I maintained alone, I would have reached zero people. Unfortunately, I had zero media engagements. But even those who did. Was there debate? Was there real discussion about the big issues facing our continent today? Were there actual debates? I’d argue I only saw shows, but no debate. Talking points being communicated, but no exchange. And I refuse to believe that our public does not desire it. We saw very limited exchanges, heavily moderated exchanges. 

    Did we discuss the urgent questions surrounding our environmental impact on the world? Did we discuss any of the crucial debates happening worldwide around our access to resources? Specifically, plans to continue to press on with deep sea mining? Did we discuss the scopes and limitations of the European Union vis a vis our engagement and influence in Israel and Gaza, in Ukraine, in Russia, in China and Taiwan, in Africa? Did we discuss immigration beyond the talking points presented by political parties (with facts and expertise?); did we discuss the resurgence of religious political influence throughout Europe? Did we discuss voting participation in Luxembourg, and what it means that so many of our EU compatriots chose to vote in Luxembourg? And how about showing an interest in all candidates? Political parties do not define us, nor do they define our ideas; it is we, the party members, who define our parties — and by not allowing all of us some minimum visibility, you are not accurately representing either the process, ourselves, or the public’s options. I was asked not to criticise the press during the campaign, but I hope this is seen at least now, not as negative criticism, but positive feedback and criticism to improve. Because we desperately need the press today, we desperately need the media to contribute to our democracy.

    “My advice to the press is to remember that you’re an important part of government and democracy, and act like it.” Howard Dean, former governor of Vermont

    “The backbone of any democracy is an independent, professional and responsible media. Their role is to inform, criticise and stimulate debate.” Peter Joseph Millett CMG, British Diplomat

    “The media today is driven by numbers. If you get a congressman idiotic enough to take pictures of himself and tweet them out, that gets 600 times more coverage than the dangers of an Iranian nuclear weapon.” Newt Gingrich, former speaker of the House (USA)

    If we want to restore our ability to decide together, based evidence and not ideology, if we want to enable ourselves to live and co-exist and decide together, we need to enable an environment that rewards stepping up to offer yourself for leadership, an environment where ideas and exchange of facts and perspectives is not only permitted, certainly not thwarted, but supported. We need the press to step up, and play a role in mediating and flourishing our democratic debate, or it will be entirely ignored, for the much more efficient, direct, and entire uncensored social media, where extremist, flashy, unfounded claims attract, maintain, and grow the voting base of those who offer very little substance, but a very good show.

    The world needs leadership, Europe needs leadership, Luxembourg needs leadership — and we need my generation, your generation, the generation after us, to be inspired and convinced, that the herculean task of putting yourself up for public leadership positions, is worthwhile and not simply toxic and thankless (even if it’s certainly the latter).

    (By the way, if some of you are thinking of our climate and ability to protect our natural habitat while reading this, well done! Without clear leadership, we will be en route to destroy the very ecosystem that sustains all of us)

    I sincerely hope that over the next 5 years, I can convince more of you to get involved, and get engaged in our shared decision making.

    Who wants to lead?

    The fight for our democracies must continue, with you.

    We’re just beginning.

    Christos FLOROS

    —

    My ancestors called themselves Roman. I call myself European. How long will we last? It’s up to us.

  • Every Nation for Itself

    Every Nation for Itself

    This is not just a ‘thank you’ post.

    But first, yes:

    28,874 personal thank you‘s for supporting me.

    And 253,344 thank you‘s for supporting our incredible DP – Demokratesch Partei team.

    To have earned your trust, your support, your faith, in my, and our team’s ability to deliver for you, that requires a huge, and sincere, thank you.

    My projections for Luxembourg and Europe were unfortunately accurate, and yet on an emotional level, we always hope to do better.

    One always hopes to do better than their own data indicates. Even if, again, I have to thank you, for giving me almost double the personal support I expected in my first election, especially one that I fought without any press, or media coverage — entirely with you, entirely grassroots. But this is not about any one person, or even any one country. Because these were European elections, about the future of our Union.

    So, let’s make it clear:

    The extremes did not win these elections, but many of us around Europe lost them. By failing (over the years, not just in this campaign) to convince our fellow citizens, that we can do better. And we must listen very clearly to this democratic protest.

    The biggest loser of these Elections is the European Union.

    ‘Divide et impera’: we are being divided, and the fact that many of us seem to ignore a carefully curated plan being actioned, is incredibly worrying.

    Those who seek to divide us have infiltrated our society, our media, our industries, our public discourse, and our politics.

    And the trend is clear, our Union is polarised, both in terms of political direction and in terms of supranational unity.

    Those of us who are responsible, moderate, politicians must be willing to take responsibility for this loss of confidence in our Union.

    Those of us who have opened a history book more than twice in our lives, must be willing to continue working, just as passionately, just as determined, to ensure history does not repeat itself.

    We must be willing to continue doing everything we can, to ensure Europe delivers for its citizens.

    Because we have got to take responsibility for the results all over Europe.

    Even if my generation is only just entering politics, we must be willing to take responsibility for the previous generations too. Because that’s what leaders do.

    European citizens are tired of overregulation. European citizens are fed-up with a European Union unable to work successfully together on border control. European citizens are frustrated, that we keep asking more of them, than we are able to offer them. European citizens are tired of handouts, when the majority of them work incredibly hard for their dues. European citizens want to be empowered to succeed.

    In the process of this protest, in the process of this polarisation, we are having our Trump moment. Mirroring what is happening in the United States, as I told Christelle BRUCKER yesterday. The big difference however is this: Trump loves Trump. And in Europe we don’t actually elect a single Trump. We elect multiple different Trumps, who each only love themselves, and their nations. A Europe of nations, working in their own self-interest, in a G-Zero world (yes, I’ve stolen the title from Ian Bremmer‘s 2012 book) will not deliver for any European citizen, regardless of how industrious, capable or ambitious the individual nation may be.

    Our countries, may have bright histories, but only together, do we pull enough weight in the world today (and even together, we’ve been reducing our weight enormously over the years – see image below). The United States are innovating, and we are simply falling behind, as China rises at an incredible pace.

    Only a strong, empowered, and purpose-led European Union can deliver for European citizens. Whether Spanish, French, Greek or Luxembourgish. Whether Romanian, Portuguese, German or Finnish.

    Share of World GDP / observations in text above

    So bottom line, here’s what I am going to do.

    • I will continue to be incredibly active in my country’s politics, at every level, micro-local, local, national and international.
    • I will continue investing my time and energy for you, within the DP – Demokratesch Partei to ensure we can conserve our Union and ensure we collectively succeed in the new global order.
    • I will continue attempting to make our politics more accessible, and more open to both criticism and participation.
    • I will continue encouraging, with my incredible colleague Jana Degrott (who by the way, not only had an incredible score, but also proved to be one of our country’s most committed politicians) more people to get involved.
    • I will continue speaking about AI, Defence and Cybersecurity (including Misinformation and Foreign Influence).
    • I will continue speaking about Europe’s competitiveness, our economy, our industries.
    • I will continue to ask for increased availability of information across our media in Luxembourg.

    And you may have guessed it:

    I will continue asking more of you, to choose to take responsibility and REGISTER TO VOTE.

    I want to thank all of you again for your support,

    Thank Charles Goerens , Amela Skenderovic , Nancy Braun , Jana Degrott , Gusty Graas and the entire team, every section, every MP, every member, every volunteer, for their support, and engagement into our campaign, to strengthen Europe.

    I want to also thank you for reading,

    I believe in Europe.

    If every nation in our Union plays for itself, we will all lose in the new state of the world.

    If we can continue to play together, with real, purposeful leadership, then we can succeed.

    Thank you for everything,

    This was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and I look forward to doing it again for you, for our city, our country, our Union, and yes, the collective success of our world.

    Kind regards,

    Christos FLOROS

  • Is it really Europe we’re talking about?

    Is it really Europe we’re talking about?

    Soundbites dominate discourse. National interests overshadow broader visions. We lose sight of the bigger picture. This is even more apparent in these European Parliament elections, where the ballot box may once again become a battleground for national grievances and triumphs rather than a platform for discussing and deciding the future of Europe as a whole.

    So, is it really Europe we’re talking about?

    In a European post-2004 era marked by unprecedented interconnectedness, where events in one corner of Europe and the globe can ripple across continents in seconds, the answer should be, a resounding yes. Whether it’s climate change, migration, or economic instability, the challenges facing Europe today transcend national borders. Ignoring this reality in favor of narrow, short-term interests is not only shortsighted but also perilous. Fragmented approaches, driven by individual national interests, will only serve to weaken our collective resilience. To confront the next stage of the global order effectively, we need a strong, cohesive EU capable of speaking with one voice on the world stage.

    It’s time to talk about Europe.

    This means recognizing that our fates are intertwined, and that only by working together can we navigate the challenges that lie ahead.

    It’s also about reclaiming our agency in shaping the world around us.

    We have a responsibility to engage in constructive dialogue, to seek common ground, and to advocate for policies that advance the greater good.

    This is not to say that national interests should be disregarded. On the contrary, they should be viewed through a European lens, mindful of their implications for the continent as a whole. By aligning our priorities and pooling our resources, we can amplify our impact and create a Europe that is not only stronger but also more resilient and prosperous.

    Are we willing to rise to the challenge of building a better Europe for future generations?

    The time for complacency is over. The time to talk about Europe is now.

  • A Vision for a Stronger and United Europe

    A Vision for a Stronger and United Europe

    Our Democratic Party (DP) election programme for the period 2024-2029.

    We outline a vision for a stronger and more united European Union. ​ In a time of social upheaval, a changing climate, and geopolitical risks, the DP emphasizes the need for collective action and a self-confident EU capable of addressing these challenges. ​Here’s a quick overview, and I encourage you to explore the full document for more details.

    Economic and Social Priorities ​

    • Building a competitive, resilient, and sustainable economy that creates jobs. ​
    • Strengthening the EU’s investment capacity to drive ecological and digital transitions. ​
    • Developing renewable energy sources and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. ​
    • Ensuring access to essential medicines and strategic reserves in Europe. ​
    • Promoting research and development to enhance competitiveness and tackle energy prices. ​
    • Investing in digitalization, cybersecurity, and defense capabilities.

    Effectively Combating Climate Change ​

    • Implementing the obligations of the Paris Climate Agreement and the commitments of the Green Deal. ​​
    • Urgently investing in renewable energies and expanding carbon sinks. ​
    • Promoting sustainable management of natural resources and circular economy practices. ​
    • Introducing reusable systems for packaging and combating programmed obsolescence. ​

    The Common Agricultural Policy ​​

    • Addressing the challenges faced by the agricultural sector, including price pressures and ecological transition. ​
    • Ensuring fair compensation for farmers affected by biodiversity protection measures. ​
    • Supporting scientific research to revitalize European agriculture. ​
    • Reforming the CAP to align with the Green Deal and improve implementation.

    Health

    • Prioritizing prevention and strengthening the EU’s capacity to respond to health crises. ​
    • Developing a decision-making capacity in the area of health and increasing production and storage of medical supplies. ​
    • Supporting medical research and utilizing digital data for innovative treatments.
    • Ensuring access to healthcare and protecting the rights of vulnerable groups.

    Strong Institutions for a High-Performance EU ​

    • Advocating for a Convention to revise the Treaties and improve the EU’s decision-making mechanisms. ​
    • Reforming the unanimity rule and enhancing qualified majority voting. ​
    • Strengthening the role of the European Parliament and promoting regular exchanges with citizens. ​
    • Defending Luxembourg’s role as the capital of Europe and ensuring smooth operation of EU institutions. ​

    Preparing the EU and Candidate Countries for Future Enlargements

    • Guaranteeing the maintenance of fundamental values and the ability to sanction violations.
    • Reforming the CAP and increasing the EU’s absorption capacity. ​
    • Welcoming new member states in stages based on their readiness and EU reform progress. ​
    • Strengthening European defense capabilities and promoting security cooperation. ​

    The EU’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Policy ​

    • Developing a coherent and effective foreign policy decision-making process. ​
    • Strengthening the EU’s voice in the world and promoting international cooperation. ​
    • Redefining relations with the African continent and supporting African representation in the UN Security Council. ​
    • Promoting cultural exchanges and defending artistic creation. ​

    New Migration Policy ​

    • Ensuring the right of asylum for those fleeing war, violations, and dictatorships. ​
    • Enhancing cooperation with countries of origin and transit and promoting humanitarian monitoring. ​
    • Strengthening solidarity and fair burden-sharing among member states. ​
    • Developing legal channels for skilled migration and addressing root causes of migration pressures.

    Rights and Values

    • Promoting gender equality, combating gender-based violence, and supporting LGBTQIA+ rights.
    • Protecting women’s reproductive rights and ensuring equal access to participation and decision-making. ​
    • Strengthening children’s rights and supporting education and cultural exchange programs.
    • Fighting discrimination and promoting social inclusion. ​

    Better Prospects for Young People​​

    • Supporting children’s rights, education, and vocational training.
    • Strengthening the Erasmus+ program and promoting youth entrepreneurship and innovation. ​
    • Addressing mental health challenges and combating drug use through balanced strategies.
    • Ensuring access to housing and promoting diverse housing typologies. ​

    Culture

    • Embracing cultural diversity, digital innovation, and sustainability. ​
    • Defending artistic creation and protecting cultural heritage.
    • Supporting cultural exchanges and promoting cultural diplomacy. ​
    • Strengthening the socio-economic impact of the cultural sector and protecting creators’ rights. ​

    Want to read the full document and explore the party’s detailed proposals for the future of Europe?