While Europe as a whole remains a first world economic power despite Brexit, it has been unable to build either a truly democratic and efficient state, or to secure peace within its territory or to have impact as a respected power on the international scene. Its splendid intellectual and artistic icons of the past two centuries are dimming in memory, leaving it no longer a radiant cultural Mecca for the world. Starting with Brexit in 2016, the European Union is now exposed to an array of dismantling forces, including the possibility of further exits, the organized opposition of populist parties, and popular uprisings like those of the Yellow Jackets in France. Mettan outlines the long history of attempts to unify the European continent, stretching from Charlemagne to Napoleon, Hitler and Stalin, predecessors to the current iteration. He specifies the routes they took, which were most promising and durable, and why they all collapsed.

“This engaging book on Europe’s options encourages the reader to have the courage of his/her convictions and proactively defend and build upon Europe’s rich cultural and religious heritage.  Originally published in French, this book is a must-read for all who want to understand the current crisis of identity and the importance of reaffirming European and in particular Swiss democratic traditions. Distinguished Swiss journalist and politician Guy Mettan, former President of the Geneva Grand Conseil,  is an optimist who believes in values, human rights, democracy and the rule of law.” ALFRED DE ZAYAS, former UN Independent Expert on the Promotion of a Democratic and Equitable International Order