Greece Must Prove Itself to Europe

Europe finds itself in a consequential period. The world is changing, and Europe must change with it if it wants to protect its image and reputation. In the eyes of the world – and in the eyes of the citizens of Europe – the image of Europe as a functioning political union has been put into question. And this crisis will also be of fundamental importance for Germany’s reputation, in Europe and worldwide. The fate of Germany is tightly linked to the fate of Europe. Germany has especially benefitted from the European idea, and Europe has brought unprecedented wealth to Germany and to the German people. The country thrives on its culture of openness and on its European and global networks – although not all German politicians share or admit that view.