Kallas warns Europe must defend global rules or face rising conflicts
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has urged Europe to defend the rules-based international order. Speaking at the University of Zurich on Thursday evening, she warned that failing to uphold international law could trigger more conflicts. Her address, dubbed The Churchill Speech, stressed the need for collective action.
Kallas highlighted Europe's long-standing commitment to global rules. The EU has reinforced this stance in recent years by backing key agreements like the 2005 UNESCO Convention on Cultural Expressions. It has also promoted cultural diplomacy through initiatives such as the 2018 New European Agenda for Culture and the 2023-2026 Council Work Plan.
On financial and legal fronts, the bloc has tightened oversight. Updates to the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD) in 2021 aimed to improve risk management and market stability. The EU also enforces rule-of-law standards in assessments like MONEYVAL's 2025 follow-up on Latvia's international cooperation. Additionally, state aid decisions—such as the 2022 approval and 2026 review of Romania's CE Oltenia restructuring—reflect adherence to strict guidelines.
The speech underscored a critical moment for Europe. Kallas argued that the continent's attachment to the existing order demands a clear choice: either defend shared values and international law or risk further instability.
The warning comes as the EU faces growing challenges to global norms. Kallas linked the erosion of the rules-based system to rising crises and potential wars. Her call to action signals a push for stronger European unity in upholding international standards.
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