Petition to all European citizens that COVID-19 does not kill the European Union too

Let’s defend the Europe that our fathers and grandparents built

It is time to show that we European citizens are better than the political and financial classes of our countries.

More than 70 years ago, the tragedy of the II World War with its millions of deaths convinced some then enlightened politicians to lay the foundations of what has become the European Union over time. It was essential then to allow countries like Germany and Netherlands to reduce a large part of their debts and war damages. This decision was taken by countries under reconstruction and certainly not with prosperous economies, yet none of those countries has ever questioned this choice. Rather, this solidarity was confirmed in 1989 when the Berlin Wall fell, although it was evident to everyone that the reunification of Germany was an advantage above all for the German citizens. However, it was then considered more important for everyone to affirm safeguarding the principles of European identity rather than looking at national interests. Remember the enthusiasm of the European people in front of the Brandenburg Gate! Many, non-Germans, rejoiced and were moved in front of that open gate. The countries of the former Soviet Union, too, will remember how generously they were welcomed in the European Union. Even in this case, the advantages were above all for Germany and for the new members that have been able to thrive thanks to the help of the European Union. Memory cannot and must not be short. A small country like Albania teaches it, sending, although not part of the European Union, the help it could to Italy, remembering the support received many years ago.

Do we want to continue to call all ourselves Europeans and continue to make our children and grandchildren circulate with Erasmus all over Europe or only in their small or big country (which then risks being no longer big)?  History shows that selfishness pays off in the long run and that only generosity and solidarity bring benefits. We would like to continue to enjoy Europe as European citizens and not as foreigners.

Mindful of all that Europe has undergone in its long history until the II World War and for the future of our children and grandchildren, we therefore ask all European citizens to sign the petition to all the European politicians to show that they are up to the challenge that COVID-19, without the direct responsibility of any European country, has faced them and deserve the legacy left by the founders of the European Union.

History today does not admit mistakes.

We, European citizens, can and must force them to take one step forward and not two steps back!