Start with ourselves
How do you see Europe in the overall context of world politics?
Europe is a continent that people talk about a lot and one that perhaps considers itself to be the centre of the world. Is this a bit selfish? There are other problems in the world than the European ones.
9th May is Europe Day: how would you like this day to be celebrated by Europeans?
By highlighting those things that we as Europeans have in common.
It seems that young people do not show a great interest in Europe’s future. Do you think this is true?
I think this depends on each person. I know that I could take a more active interest myself. I believe that the majority of young people does take an interest – those who are studying, and those who are starting to work for example, because they need to secure a future for their children. Europe is our home now and into the future. At times it appears as though there is no point in taking an interest in politics, because many people who are in positions of power do not set a good example.
What do you think about populist tendencies? How can we make things better together?
I do not like populism. All the slogans in the run up to the elections and then… In what can we put our trust? Who can we believe? I often do not agree with those who are in positions of power, but I am not sure how to make a difference so that justice can win. However, we need to recognise that there are also many positive things happening. Our people want change. I hope that the future will bring positive changes. However we need to start from ourselves, as always. Instead of criticizing others we must give the best of ourselves to our neighbours, family and friends.
Marie Kilbergrová, Czech Republic