French President Emmanuel Macron called on the European Union to strengthen its autonomy and respond faster to global change. In a post on X, he described European sovereignty as a practical necessity for the continent’s survival and influence, rather than an abstract political idea.
Macron connected the argument to his landmark 2017 Sorbonne speech. In his view, over the past nine years the idea of a sovereign Europe has moved from something many dismissed as an illusion to a shared objective. He said the EU had already shown it could act collectively during crises.
The central challenge, he argued, is preventing Europe from being sidelined as it competes with the United States and China. That will require faster adaptation to technological shifts and geopolitical shocks, as well as a greater capacity to make decisions independently.
Macron also delivered a major Sorbonne address on EU reform in 2024. In 2017, he proposed strengthening Europe’s ability to protect its borders, economy, democracy and values, deepening eurozone integration, creating a dedicated EU finance minister and establishing a common budget.
Macron’s second presidential term ends in May 2027, and he cannot seek a third consecutive term under current rules. He has nevertheless said he does not rule out a return to the presidency at a later point.