Shubham Mukherjee

What has gone wrong in Europe? Here is my take! Europe has many strengths. We Europeans are enjoying the highest living standard in the world. Asian nations are more dynamic, but we are the largest market. We have created peace between the arch enemies Germany and France. Europe could be a proud civilization in dialogue with India, China and others. But something has gone wrong. Until recently Europeans watched the Gen Z rebellions in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and other countries with interest from distance. Now the rebellions have come home - to the center of Europe - to France, Italy and Spain. What has gone wrong? How can Europe bounce back? Here are my observations: * Poor leadership. The German chancellor has an approval rate just about 10%, the French president isn't much better at 15%. UK has run through seven prime ministers in ten years, none of them evil, nearly all of them underwhelming and mediocre. A continent once led by Adenauer and Brandt, de Gaulle and Mitterrand simply need new and better leaders.  * No growth. If you want to improve schools and education, there will be less for the retired. Or vice versa. It’s very hard to develop nations when everything is a zero sum game between generations and classes. There is no visible strategy for growth. * Wrong choices. Spurred by the Russian attack on Ukraine, many European governments prioritize rearmament and support to Ukraine. There is every reason to detest Russia and Putin, but the main threat to Europe comes from within. If we destroy our societies at home we cannot meet outside pressures. It’s wrong to prioritize rearming above education, social services and the environment. * Pessimism. European leaders speak as if the continent is in an unprecedented crisis. When leaders talk down our own continent, how can anyone expect people to be confident. Pessimism in itself a destructive force and should be replaced with opportunity, dedication to change and hope. * Lack of curiosity. Europe is lagging far behind East Asia on education, innovation and quality of universities. China has overtaken Europe as the green leader and the economic engine of the world. We have a lot to learn from India. US economy is more dynamic. Still there is a lack of curiosity to other cultures. If we dont become curious, we are doomed.