European Leaders Must Forge Response to US ‘Civilizational Erasure’ Claim

European leaders face a critical challenge following the release of a national security strategy by the US government, which characterizes the continent as experiencing “civilizational erasure.” This term, appearing prominently in the document, suggests a significant shift in the US’s relationship with its European allies, indicating that future partnerships are not guaranteed.

Understanding the implications of “civilizational erasure” is essential. The phrase implies a perceived decline in the core values that have historically defined European nations as reliable partners to the United States. The strategy seems to assert that principles such as “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” which underpin American identity, may no longer resonate in Europe. The document also expresses concerns about migration, suggesting it contributes to this perceived decline.

Surprisingly, data from the Cato Institute indicates that six of the world’s top ten most free countries are within the European Union, contrasting with the US and the UK, which rank at number 17. Furthermore, according to Gallup, Americans rank 24th in happiness, while several EU nations consistently appear among the happiest globally. Such statistics challenge the narrative of European decline.

Life expectancy further complicates this narrative. The OECD reported that in 2024, the US’s healthcare spending was over US$12,000 per person, the highest in the world. Yet, Americans have a life expectancy that is, on average, six years shorter than that of Europeans. This raises questions about the real state of well-being in both regions.

The US’s concerns about migration also warrant scrutiny. The country is home to the highest number of first and second-generation immigrants globally, including former President Donald Trump, whose family originated in Europe. The US’s apprehension about European migration overlooks the significant role that immigrants have played in shaping American success.

Despite the strong rhetoric from the US, it is essential for European leaders to formulate a coherent response. The absence of a unified European strategy exacerbates the challenge, especially as the US signals a retreat from its traditional role in global affairs. The national security strategy outlines three key messages that Europe must consider.

Firstly, the US intends to step back from its role as the “world’s sheriff” and will not continue subsidizing global stability. This shift implies that Europe must prepare to take on more responsibility within its own sphere, particularly in regions like North Africa and the Middle East.

Secondly, the US now recognizes that exporting democracy does not guarantee peace. This perspective aligns with the need for Europe to reassess its approach to external relationships, focusing on protecting human rights rather than promoting a singular model of governance.

Lastly, the US asserts that nation-states remain the foundation of international order, suggesting that multilateralism may no longer be effective. European leaders should not retreat into isolationism but instead lead a radical reform of multilateral institutions. The EU must play a central role in this transformation, as effective strategy cannot emerge from 27 individual nations acting in silos.

While the notion of “civilizational erasure” may be exaggerated, it underscores a genuine need for Europe to bolster its political, financial, and defense capabilities. As global dynamics shift in the 21st century, European nations must be proactive, demonstrating their readiness to lead and adapt to new geopolitical realities.

Francesco Grillo, an academic fellow at the Department of Social and Political Sciences at Bocconi University, emphasizes that Europe must not only respond to external critiques but also internally evaluate its aspirations and strategies for the future. The time has come for a comprehensive European security strategy, one that asserts its commitment to thriving in an evolving global landscape.