Sergio Mattarella, in a video message to the Cernobbio Forum, reiterated that the European Union remains a point of reference for the defense of law and democracy. In a time marked by wars and international tensions, the head of state reminded that Europe has managed to transform the rubble of the post-war period into a unique project of peace, cooperation, and shared rights.

A force of global stability

The EU, Mattarella emphasized, has never fueled conflicts or trade wars. On the contrary, it has promoted peace missions, economic agreements, and higher social and environmental standards, becoming a driver of progress beyond its borders. Hence the provocative question: how can Europe today be seen by some as an obstacle or even an enemy?

Democracies against autocracies

The President warned of the risk of succumbing to the "myth of the superiority of autocratic regimes." Instead, a cooperative multilateralism is needed, capable of curbing the overpowering influence of large global corporations and restoring centrality to states and international organizations.

Businesses and labor as protagonists

Mattarella then called upon the economic and social forces: businesses and workers must remain at the center of the European construction. "Today more than ever," he said, "the European lever is decisive. Stronger institutions and governments capable of not yielding to regressions are needed." The challenge is to pass on to new generations a more united Europe, capable of defending its values and reviving growth and employment.