Europe finds itself, once again in its long history, at a decisive moment. The uncertainties and pressures surrounding the European Union (EU) —from geopolitical conflicts and migratory movements to the climate crisis and economic tensions— demand a quick and resolute response. However, the two historical engines of European integration, France and Germany, are trapped in political paralysis that prevents them from leading this necessary reaction. In the face of this institutional blockage, new leadership capable of articulating an ambitious European agenda may emerge.
Italy, Poland and Spain, some of the few stable European governments with growing political weight, are in a unique position to champion this effort. A pragmatic alliance between these three periphery (geographical) European countries could be the key to overcoming the current fragmentation and advancing an agenda that defends Europe’s geopolitical, economic, environmental and democratic interests, placing emphasis on competitiveness, cohesion and connectivity.
Reaction to the pressures
The international arena offers no respite. The war in Ukraine has tested European security and exposed the region’s energy dependence. Tensions with China and the United States are reshaping the global economic order, while climate change continues to escalate as an existential threat. In the face of these pressures, Europe needs a response that blends internal cohesion with external action capability.
France and Germany have historically been the engines of the EU, but in recent years their internal differences and divergent visions for Europe’s future have hindered collective progress. This does not mean abandoning their leadership, but complementing it through ad hoc alliances.
Leadership from the periphery
Italy, the strongest economy in southern Europe, brings experience in industrial policy and relations with neighboring Mediterranean partners. Poland, situated in the east, plays a crucial role in defense and security facing threats on the EU’s eastern border. Spain, for its part, leads in renewable energy and holds a strategic position in relations with Latin America. These three countries are also essential to developing connections in transport, energy and innovation that promote a cohesive Europe.
“Climate change is not only a threat, but also an opportunity to transform the European economy toward a more sustainable and competitive model”
A key priority of this pact should be the ecological transition. Climate change is not only a threat, but also an opportunity to transform the European economy toward a more sustainable and competitive model. From upgrading energy infrastructures to guarantee interconnection among countries, to boosting investments in clean technologies and local economies, climate action can become the backbone of Europe’s future prosperity.
A connected and cohesive Europe
It is crucial that the peripheral countries take a proactive role in this transformation. The improvement of networks for passenger and freight transport, the creation of energy corridors and the strengthening of investments in research and innovation are essential measures to ensure a truly connected Europe. Inspired by the Letta and Draghi reports, this approach can reduce regional inequalities and reinforce territorial cohesion, strengthening the EU from its periphery to its center.
The role of European institutions
So far, the European Commission, under the leadership of Ursula von der Leyen, has demonstrated a firm commitment to the green and digital transition through the European Green Deal. New figures such as Teresa Ribera, a promoter of ambitious climate policies, and Antonio Costa, from the European Council, play a key role in shaping this transformative vision. Their ability to coordinate efforts among the member states will be decisive in turning these priorities into concrete realities and in mitigating the obstacles that some parties may place in the highly fragmented European Parliament.
Five key priorities
In a scenario marked by urgent challenges and great opportunities, Europe must decisively address a series of transformative actions to ensure its security, sustainability and cohesion. These initiatives must not remain mere ideas, but backbone pillars of a strategy that revives the EU from its periphery toward its center. Each priority underscores the urgency of aligning national efforts under a strong and visionary European leadership.
The continent’s security requires a more integrated European defense policy, capable of responding to current threats through effective collaboration with transatlantic allies and a move toward strategic autonomy. It is not necessarily about spending more, but spending better, integrating the defense of our democratic values and principles against external pressures of misinformation and manipulation.
Europe must also lead the way toward a green and digital economy, designing reindustrialization plans that strengthen its competitiveness in an increasingly multipolar and challenging context. This green economic transformation must also foster innovation and create economic opportunities in decarbonized transport, green chemistry, organic farming, renewable energies and health, which form the foundation of a prosperous economy and society.
“A pragmatic alliance led by Italy, Poland and Spain could mark the start of a new era of cooperation and decisive action in European history”
La transición hacia energías limpias debe ser el eje central del desarrollo europeo, asegurando la autosuficiencia energética, fomentando el autoconsumo y la energía descentralizada para cumplir con los objetivos climáticos y estimular la innovación y competitividad frente a actores externos como China, Rusia o Estados Unidos que mantienen una alta dependencia en la energía fósil.
It is essential to invest in transport, energy and telecommunications networks that promote territorial cohesion and ensure a resilient and connected Europe. These infrastructures are fundamental to reduce inequalities among regions and to consolidate a true unity.
The modernization of European institutions should enable faster and more effective decision-making, overcoming the deadlocks imposed by unanimity and strengthening the role of citizens and organized civil society in decision-making through thematic assemblies and strategic dialogues.
Reinventing Europe’s engines
The EU cannot afford to remain stagnant at a moment when its global relevance is at stake. A pragmatic alliance led by Italy, Poland and Spain could mark the start of a new era of cooperation and decisive action in European history. With a focus on competitiveness, cohesion and connectivity, and with the firm leadership of the European Commission and the European Council, Europe can demonstrate that, even in diversity, it can find the unity needed to protect its interests and lead on the world stage.
