The political shift in the United States under Donald Trump offers the European Union a unique opportunity to become the standard-bearer of democracy, human rights, and freedoms. It is a responsibility Europe must embrace by defending these values both within and beyond its borders — particularly in Ukraine.
This op-ed, published on 26 May 2025 in Le Monde, is signed by Jean-Marc Borello, Chair of the Executive Board of Groupe SOS.
In 2025, we observe with sadness that the United States — once the leader of the free world — has increasingly withdrawn from its international responsibilities. Worse still, under the new Trump administration, the U.S. has consistently aligned itself with the authoritarian narratives of Vladimir Putin, cut crucial funding for international initiatives, has undermined the International Criminal Court, withdrawn support for independent journalists, and threatened to expel political refugees and researchers. This retreat has left a vacuum in global governance that only the European Union (EU) can now fill.
The EU can now reaffirm its commitment to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. This means standing firmly against authoritarian regimes that suppress dissent, violate human rights, and undermine democratic institutions. The EU must therefore wield its diplomatic and economic power to exert pressure on such regimes.
The war in Ukraine is a test of the EU’s resolve. It must increase its support and place humanitarian values at the heart of peace negotiations, as called for by “People First” — an international campaign led by Ukrainian and Russian NGOs united in their plea not to forget the hostages of the conflict.
In Georgia, pro-European demonstrators have been protesting for weeks in opposition to a government aligned with Russia.
In line with international law, Europe must demand the immediate and unconditional release of all Ukrainian civilians captured and detained by the Kremlin. Those whose homes are in territories illegally occupied by Russia must be given the opportunity to relocate to areas under Ukrainian government control – if they so wish. All children forcibly transferred or deported must be returned, and the swift repatriation of deported Ukrainian prisoners and patients from closed medical institutions must be ensured. The EU must also advocate for the return of prisoners of war through exchanges or other means, as soon as possible and no later than the end of active hostilities, as required by the Geneva Conventions.
Russian political prisoners must also be freed and face no restrictions on their freedom of movement, including the right to travel abroad. The same applies to Belarusian political prisoners and to Georgian activists, journalists, and human rights defenders: all those persecuted by the Putin regime and its allies must be supported. By working towards their freedom, Europe will earn its rightful place in peace negotiations — not in pursuit of potential financial gain, as the U.S. does, but in defence of human rights.
To truly become the new leader of the free world, Europe must significantly increase funding for researchers and NGOs working on democracy, human rights, and civil society issues, and attract more talent from abroad — including from the U.S. and authoritarian regimes. These organisations are on the front lines of the fight for freedom and deserve robust support.
By investing in research and civil society, the EU can build a democratic shield against extremism and authoritarianism, helping men and women become better informed and more engaged in democracy, both within and beyond its borders. This also applies to refugees and asylum seekers, especially those fearing extradition to authoritarian countries. We must not turn our backs on those fleeing persecution for their pro-democracy and anti-war actions. The EU must adopt a more humane and comprehensive refugee policy that prioritises protection and integration. This includes ensuring that no refugee is forcibly returned to Russia or Belarus, where they may face further persecution.
Moreover, journalists who have long been voices for freedom and democracy in regions where these values are under threat must be welcomed and supported. This would send a strong signal of the EU’s commitment to media freedom and the free flow of information.
Today, the EU must act with courage and conviction. By defending human rights, supporting Ukraine, empowering researchers and NGOs, adopting a more humane refugee policy, defending media freedom, and strengthening the rule of law, the EU can assert its role as the leader of the free world. We urge European leaders to seize this moment and uphold the values that are integral to our identity. The world is watching, and the future of freedom and democracy is at stake.
Signatories:
Alice Barbe, cofondatrice de l’association et de ;
Jean-Marc Borello, président du Directoire du Groupe SOS ;
Tamara Demuria, présidente de l’association Géorgie vue de France ;
Zhanna Nemtsova, cofondatrice de la Fondation Boris Nemtsov pour les libertés (Allemagne);
Olga Prokopieva, directrice de l’association Russie-Libertés et à l’initiative de cette tribune ;
Sylvie Rollet, présidente de Pour l’Ukraine, pour leur liberté et la nôtre ;
26 June 2025
5 June 2025
3 June 2025