Today, a demonstration marched through the center of Madrid to defend European values and democracy at a time when the continent is facing its greatest crisis. The organizers emphasize that “the answer to this threat is the European Union.”
The demonstration began in Plaza de Callao. The initiators are a group of people connected to culture, communication, universities, and youth associations, with support from political parties and other civil society groups.
The rally in Madrid follows the example of other European capitals that have already taken to the streets to defend the role of Europe and the European Union. For example, Rome surprised everyone a month ago with a turnout of 50,000.
The gathering in Madrid takes place the same week as Europe Day, last Friday, May 9. The organizers are expecting a large turnout. In their manifesto, they emphasize that “Europe has never been more threatened in the last 80 years” and that “the answer to this threat is the European Union.”
In this context, they recall that the EU is “the most successful known process of social, economic, and peace-building integration” – a project that “transcends the mere sum of the states that comprise it, but today requires greater citizen commitment.” They invite: “It is time to take to the streets and courageously defend Europe and its model.”
Pedro Sánchez also supported the demonstration. Among the personalities who supported the Europe Day celebrations was Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who met this week with five young people from different EU countries to reflect on European values and initiatives in the areas of innovation, entrepreneurship, digitalization, mobility, and social cohesion.
