The Sopot Declaration 2019
2019-09-27
At the end of the European Forum for New Ideas, its participants adopted the Sopot Declaration.
1. The European Union is the second economy in the world. However, the intrinsic value of the European project stems from the fact that within the EU we maintain the peace, we respect the principles of democracy and human rights, we raise the living and working standards, we develop the economy and create better prospects for employment.
2. Today, it is crucial to maintain common European objectives and values and to convince the rest of the world to follow a similar path. The global position of Europe is currently being challenged by globalisation and changes in the balance of power. That is why we must strengthen it and oppose the wave of nationalism, protectionism and particularism.
3. We have no time to waste to effectively protect the Earth - its resources, climate and environment. Now more than ever we must strive to achieve climate neutrality and energy security by mid-21st century at the latest. We have to view the task of using renewable energy and shifting to a circular economy as an investment in global competitiveness rather than a burden. Therefore, we must ensure fair transition and prevent the export of pollution and production to other continents.
4. The results of the election to the European Parliament in May have proved that populism need not prevail in Europe. We expect the new Parliament, the Commission and the Council:
- To set far-reaching objectives and bold solutions, including further enlargement of the European Union;
- To conduct an open and substantive dialogue with all stakeholders;
- To develop the single market and to improve Europe's competitiveness and investment attractiveness;
- To propose an EU budget that would address the growing challenges and support a sustainable and inclusive Europe;
- To provide more effective support for innovation, research and development, to ensure cyber-security, to build the digital economy, and to develop artificial intelligence and 5G networks.
5. We need more equality and diversity both in politics and in business. The variety of experiences and points of view favours the creation of non-standard and innovative solutions. We should reconsider the proposal to introduce quotas for the under-represented gender in public institutions and in managements of enterprises.
6. Europe is struggling with a demographic crisis and losing the global war for talent. The answer should be a wise and fair immigration policy, which would give us the opportunity to utilise the human potential while ensuring the security of our borders. Attracting talent and building effective labour markets requires greater decentralisation and cooperation between businesses and regional and local self-governments.
7. Business is aware of challenges ahead. It can and is willing to provide effective solutions in European and global problems. However, business should redefine:
- The manner of operation of enterprises and their decision-making criteria;
- The model of capitalist economy.
Instead of solely seeking short-term profits, we should start focusing on long-term development. Companies should act not only to the benefit of their shareholders but also to the benefit of the entire societies.
Instead of asking what tomorrow brings, let's take the future into our own hands!
Sopot, 27.09.2019
