A Pro-Europe Rally in Rome: A Stand for Unity and Democracy
Tens of thousands of Italians gathered in Rome’s central Piazza del Popolo on Saturday for a pro-Europe rally, waving blue European Union flags as a symbol of unity and support. The rally, which was organized by Italian journalist Michele Serra, brought together people from various political backgrounds, united by their commitment to democracy and the European project. Serra, who launched the initiative with an editorial in La Repubblica titled “Let’s say something European,” emphasized the importance of a united Europe. “I wanted to organize a large demonstration of citizens supporting Europe, its unity and its freedom, with no party flags, only European flags,” he said, introducing the rally’s slogan: “Here we make Europe, or we die.”
A Response to Global Political Shifts
The rally was not just a show of support for Europe but also a response to the destabilizing policies of U.S. President Donald Trump, which have strained relations between Europe and the United States. The war in Ukraine and ongoing trade disputes have further deepened the rift. While some European leaders have called for increased military spending to strengthen the continent’s defense, others have expressed concern about the economic implications of such a move. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, for instance, has reluctantly backed an EU plan to rearm Europe, fearing that the proposal could exacerbate Italy’s already significant debt.
The EU plan aims to generate around 800 billion euros over the next four years, primarily through increased defense and security spending by member states. Meloni has criticized the plan, arguing that the term “rearm” is misleading and that the focus should instead be on common defense and security. Her government has faced criticism for its stance, with some accusing it of being out of touch with the pro-Europe sentiment expressed by the rally.
A Divided Political Landscape
The rally highlighted the deep divisions within Italy’s political landscape. While center-left opposition parties supported the initiative, the right-wing government parties, led by Meloni, were noticeably absent. Vice Premier Matteo Salvini, leader of the eurosceptic League party, dismissed the rally as a symbolic gesture, arguing that his party is working to reform Europe from within. “While some people demonstrate with flags, we work to change this Europe, which crushes workers, farmers, and entrepreneurs with its absurd rules,” he said.
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also criticized the rally, stating that support for Europe should come in the form of concrete reforms rather than symbolic events. These comments reflect the government’s skepticism toward initiatives that emphasize unity over policy changes. However, organizers of the rally argued that such events are essential for fostering a sense of shared purpose and commitment to democratic values.
Freedom and Democracy: Core Themes of the Rally
For many participants, the rally was about more than just Europe—it was about defending fundamental values like freedom and democracy. Daniela Condotto, one of the demonstrators, summed up the sentiment: “We are here to defend freedom and democracy. These are concepts that we have grown used to over 80 years, but they cannot be taken for granted. They need to be defended.” The rally served as a reminder that these values, often seen as cornerstones of European identity, are worth fighting for.
The event also underscored the importance of unity in the face of challenges. Participants from different political backgrounds came together, setting aside their differences in a show of solidarity. This unity was seen as a powerful counterpoint to the fractured political landscape both in Italy and across the EU.
The Broader Implications of the Rally
The rally in Rome is part of a larger conversation about Europe’s future. With the EU facing internal divisions, economic challenges, and external pressures, the need for unity and cooperation has never been greater. The pro-Europe movement, as represented by the rally, offers a vision of a Europe that is more integrated, more democratic, and more committed to the values that have underpinned its progress since the end of World War II.
However, the path forward is fraught with obstacles. The EU’s rearmament plan, while aimed at strengthening the continent’s defense capabilities, has sparked concerns about the economic burden it could place on member states like Italy. Meloni’s government has made it clear that it wants to see reforms that address these concerns, rather than symbolic gestures like the rally.
A Call to Action for Europe’s Future
The pro-Europe rally in Rome was more than just a demonstration—it was a call to action. It reminded Europeans that the EU is not just an economic or political entity but a community of people united by shared values and a common history. As the continent faces the challenges of the 21st century, this sense of unity and purpose will be crucial.
For organizers like Michele Serra, the rally was a step in the right direction. “Here we make Europe, or we die,” he said, emphasizing the importance of taking action to ensure Europe’s survival and prosperity. The rally showed that there is still a strong constituency for the European project, even as its future remains uncertain.
As Europe continues to grapple with the challenges of rearmament, debt, and political divisions, initiatives like the Rome rally serve as a powerful reminder of what is at stake. The question now is whether this momentum can be sustained and translated into meaningful change. The answer will depend on the ability of European leaders to work together and to inspire their citizens with a vision of a stronger, more united Europe.
