Reuniting Europe in peace, stability and prosperity – S&Ds revive iconic Willy Brandt Programme to drive EU enlargement

Reuniting Europe in peace, stability and prosperity – S&Ds revive iconic Willy Brandt Programme to drive EU enlargement


Ahead of the 2004-2013 EU enlargement rounds, the S&Ds played a key role in preparing political partners from aspiring countries through the landmark Willy Brandt Programme for EU Enlargement, named after the visionary social democratic leader and Nobel laureate who dedicated his life to reconciling Eastern and Western Europe. But today, in the face of unprecedented geopolitical shifts – from Trump’s unpredictable and confrontational politics, to Russia’s brutal, ongoing war against Ukraine, and the rise of the far right – we are reminded of how vital it is to strengthen our political unity and safeguard our democracies. “It is important to bear in mind and continue to remember that EU enlargement has brought significant benefits – not only to the countries that have joined or sought membership, but also to the Union as a whole.

Author: S&D - Socialists and Democrats, S&D - Socialists and Democrats


Published at: 2025-04-06 23:00:00

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