Four influential and uncompromising voices in politics, media, and activism – Yanis Varoufakis, Katie Halper, Grace Blakeley, and Melanie Schweizer – will take the stage at the National Theater of Brussels to deliver a powerful message about Europe’s future. This landmark event, “WTF Happened to Europe? How We Lost It and What We Must Do”, will not only expose the continent’s political and economic failures but also demand a radical transformation towards a Europe that seizes back its sovereignty, dismantles elite rule, and reinvents itself as a force for real justice and liberation.
This event is not just another discussion; it’s a rallying cry. Featuring uncompromising voices from across politics, activism, and the arts, we will expose the EU’s darkest truths and lay out a vision for a Europe that serves its people, fosters peace, and promotes cooperation for the common good.
Yanis Varoufakis, renowned economist and co-founder of DiEM25, will explore the troubling transformation of the European Union into a tool of financial elites and global power plays. In his talk, he will shed light on the deepening economic stagnation across the continent and its connection to the rise of reactionary politics, urging a bold departure from the neoliberal paradigm that has dominated Europe for decades.
Katie Halper, an award-winning journalist and sharp political commentator, will delve into the influential role the media plays in shaping public perception on some of the most pressing global issues, from Gaza to Ukraine. She will examine how the narratives constructed by mainstream outlets often reinforce Europe’s complicity with U.S. geopolitical interests, while calling for a reimagining of independent journalism as a powerful tool for resistance and truth.
Grace Blakeley, respected economist and outspoken critic of neoliberalism, will reflect on the growing disillusionment among younger generations with capitalism, militarism, and imperialism. Rather than simply critiquing the failures of the European Union, she will highlight the emerging movements offering real hope for systemic change and a new model of governance that prioritises equity and sustainability.
Melanie Schweizer, a human rights advocate and political activist, will share her personal journey of being silenced for speaking out on Gaza, becoming a symbol of political resistance in the process. Her story will shine a light on the growing suppression of dissent in Europe, where political persecution is often masked as the defense of ‘acceptable’ discourse, and explore how individuals can turn this repression into a catalyst for mobilisation and meaningful change.
This event is not just about understanding what went wrong; it is about forging a new path forward. It will present real solutions for reclaiming Europe’s political and economic independence, rebuilding social solidarity, and challenging the status quo with bold, progressive alternatives.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, March 7, 2025
- Time: Doors open at 18:00 CET | Start at 19:15 CET
- Venue: National Theater, Brussels
- Tickets: via this link
- Language: English
- Press registration: via this link
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