The upcoming emergency summit of European leaders on Ukraine is not just a crisis response, at the same time it is also a historic opportunity to redefine Europe's economic and political trajectory. The war in Ukraine has exposed the vulnerabilities of neoliberal economic policies that prioritized deregulation, austerity, and dependence on unstable global markets. In response Europe must chart a path forward that is rooted in social democracy: economic justice, public investment, and collective security.

Threats to Europe’s Stability and the Urgent Need for Social Solidarity

The war in Ukraine has exacerbated deep economic inequalities in Europe. Energy price hikes and inflation have hit working-class households hardest, while military spending has surged at the expense of social services. The neoliberal response, i.e., deregulation and privatization, has proven to be highly inadequate in addressing these systemic challenges. Instead, Europe must embrace a solidarity-based economic model that prioritizes social investment, fair wages, and strong public infrastructure.

Furthermore, Europe cannot afford to be divided in the face of the unpredictability of the US foreign policy. Trump's unilateral approach to peace negotiations with Russia underscores the need for Europe to take greater control of its own foreign policy. A fragmented Europe, dictated by corporate interests and right-wing nationalist tendencies, will only deepen inequality and social unrest.

Opportunities for a Democratic and Just Economic Order

Rather than merely adapting to external shocks, Europe must actively shape its own economic future in a way that prioritizes social justice and sustainability. Here are some key areas where Europe can take decisive action:

1. Public Investment in Energy and Green Transition: Instead of relying on corporate-led decarbonization efforts, the EU should establish a publicly owned and democratically managed energy sector. Expanding public investment in renewable energy, green infrastructure, and public transport can create millions of well-paid jobs while ensuring energy security.

2. Democratic Control of the Defense Sector: Increased military spending should not enrich private arms manufacturers. Instead, defense investment should be democratically accountable and integrated into a broader European security strategy that prioritizes diplomacy, peace-building, and economic resilience over militarization.
3. Technological Sovereignty and Workers’ Rights: Europe must invest in technological innovation, but in a way that serves people rather than corporations. Publicly funded AI research, fair labor protections in tech industries, and stronger antitrust regulations should prevent monopolistic control over critical digital infrastructure.

4. Economic Democracy and Worker Power: Europe’s response to economic instability must center workers’ rights, including expanded collective bargaining, workplace democracy, and stronger social safety nets. The EU should promote policies that counter corporate dominance and prioritize economic redistribution through progressive taxation and wealth redistribution.

5. A People-Centered Trade Policy: Instead of free trade agreements that serve only corporate interests, Europe should push for fair trade policies that prioritize labor rights, environmental sustainability, and protections for small and medium-sized enterprises. This would strengthen internal markets while ensuring fair international economic relations.

The Role of Türkiye in a More Socially Just Europe

As Europe seeks to redefine its economic and security structures, Türkiye must be seen not merely as a geopolitical partner, but as a potential ally in advancing social justice and regional stability. A reformed EU-Türkiye relationship should emphasize:

1. A Socially Inclusive Energy Partnership: Instead of extractivist energy deals, Europe and Türkiye should collaborate on publicly controlled and socially beneficial renewable energy projects, ensuring energy access and fair labor conditions.

2. Democratic Trade and Economic Cooperation: The modernization of the EU- Türkiye Customs Union should be contingent on labor rights, fair trade, and anti-corruption measures, rather than serving only corporate interests.

3. A Humanitarian Approach to Migration: Europe must abandon the transactional, security-focused approach to migration management with Türkiye. Instead, it should work towards a humane asylum system that prioritizes dignity, integration, and regional cooperation in addressing the root causes of displacement.

4. Joint Investment in Public Infrastructure: EU- Türkiye cooperation should include mutual investments in public health, education, and transport infrastructure to promote economic stability and social equity in both regions.

A Europe for the Many, Not the Few Only
To conclude, the war in Ukraine has exposed the fragility of Europe's current economic and security model. This moment must be seized, not only to counter external threats, but also to build a more just and democratic Europe—one where public investment, social protection, and workers' rights take precedence over corporate profits and austerity. Strengthening Europe must mean strengthening democracy, solidarity, and collective well-being, ensuring that this crisis leads to an economy that works for the many, not the few.

Moreover such a vision is very much essential for countering the rise of far-right nationalism across Europe. By addressing economic precarity and social inequality, a renewed social democratic Europe can weaken the appeal of reactionary forces that exploit insecurity and fear for political gain. Investing in equitable development, regional stability, and democratic institutions can curb authoritarian tendencies both within the EU and beyond, including in Türkiye, where democratic backsliding has been a persistent concern for the last 15 years. A fair and prosperous Europe that is built on social justice and shared economic strength, can serve as a powerful counterweight to the politics of division and exclusion, fostering an era of inclusive growth and re-democratization across the continent.

Ceyhun Elgin