BRUSSELS 23/08/2026
Proclamation for the Renewal and Establishment of the European Defence Community (2026)
Inspired by the Treaty of Paris (1952), adapted for the needs of Europe today
Preamble
In an era marked by renewed geopolitical tension, hybrid threats, cyber warfare, and the fragility of global security guarantees, the nations of Europe recognize the urgent need for a stronger, more unified defence posture.
Recalling in a modernised way the Treaty for establishing the European Defence Community, signed in Paris on 27 May 1952, whose ratification remains technically open and whose principles of shared defence, common institutions, and integrated forces remain profoundly relevant today , We, the citizens,nations and peoples of Europe, proclaim our intent to revive and establish the European Defence Community (EDC) for the 21st century.
I. Purpose in Today’s World
To ensure Europe’s capacity for autonomous defence, complementing but not replacing NATO which should act outside of the european borders, and strengthening the European pillar within the Alliance as originally envisioned by the Treaty.
To protect European citizens against conventional, cyber, hybrid, and emerging threats.
To guarantee long‑term stability in a world where global security commitments can no longer be assumed as permanent or unconditional.
To reinforce European unity,by recognizing that defence integration is essential to political, cultural,economic, and technological sovereignty in parallel with the european union which should continue working for the economic integration as the founders of europe envisioned.
II. Foundations Based on the 1954 Treaty
Building on the institutional architecture outlined in the original EDC Treaty—common budget, shared procurement, integrated forces, and supranational governance —the renewed EDC shall include:
A European Defence Force (EDF) composed of national units under unified European command.
A European Defence Council, representing member states and responsible for strategic decisions.
A European Armaments and Innovation Agency, coordinating procurement, research, and technological development.
A Cyber and Hybrid Defence Directorate, addressing modern threats unknown in 1954.
A Parliamentary Oversight Assembly,which might be unified with the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe ensuring democratic legitimacy and transparency.
III. Commitments of Member States
Member states joining the renewed EDC commit to:
Progressive integration of national forces into the European Defence Force.
Shared financing of defence capabilities through a common budget.
Joint procurement to reduce duplication
and strengthen Europe’s industrial base.
Mutual defence obligations, ensuring that an attack on one is an attack on all.
Close cooperation with NATO, maintaining interoperability and strategic alignment.
IV. Why Now?
The original EDC failed in 1954 due to political divisions, particularly in France, despite broad support elsewhere in Europe . Today, however:
Europe faces new security challenges unimaginable in the 1950s.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has reshaped European defence priorities.
The uncertainty of external security guarantees has revived interest in completing the EDC Treaty, with new ratification initiatives emerging in several countries .
Public opinion across Europe increasingly supports greater defence integration.
The moment that eluded Europe in 1954 has returned—this time with greater urgency.
V. Appeal to the Parliaments and Citizens of Europe
We call upon the parliaments of the European states to:
Reopen and complete the ratification of the Treaty establishing the European Defence Community.
Adapt its provisions to the realities of the 21st century while preserving its founding vision.
Affirm Europe’s capacity to defend itself, its values, and its future.
We call upon the citizens,nations and peoples of Europe to support this renewed effort to secure peace, stability, and sovereignty for generations to come.
VI. Conclusion
Let this proclamation mark the rebirth of a project conceived in the aftermath of war, abandoned in a moment of hesitation, and revived in a time of necessity.
The European Defence Community shall stand as a testament to Europe’s determination to defend itself, to act together, and to shape its own destiny.
ANGELOS CHARLAFTIS
citizens advisor
Labels: defence
posted by The visioner @ 9:26 AM
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