EPIC on Euronews: Values, Vision, and a Wake-Up Call for EU Policymaking
25/06/2025 · 4 min read
Appearing on the Euronews weekly show “Brussels, My Love?” hosted by Maria Psara, EPIC’s Vassilis Kessidis joined a timely and high-stakes discussion on the EU’s response to escalating crises — from Gaza to defense policy, to democratic backsliding in Hungary.
Speaking alongside Christos Doulkeridis, former mayor of Ixelles, and Anna Zachariadou, defense and security analyst, Kessidis underlined a core message that reflects EPIC’s founding ethos:
“Being in Europe means standing for human rights — no exceptions. Not in the EU? Doesn’t matter. Geography, culture, values — they count. Priorities must be clear. Human rights come first.”
The episode aired at a critical moment. The Gaza conflict continues to shake Europe’s foreign relations, as historic allies like France, Canada, and the UK publicly distance themselves from Israel’s actions. Even the EU is now considering a review of its trade relations with Tel Aviv. And with Washington growing restless, a diplomatic turning point is unfolding.
Against this backdrop, EPIC emphasized that the EU’s identity cannot be shaped solely by strategic interests — it must be anchored in its values. “What I see and recognize,” said Kesidis, “is that the European Union and its institutions must exist to prevent crises. That is what we have not been doing in recent years — especially in recent months. We are not thinking long-term.”
The discussion also addressed the European Commission’s €150 billion SAFE proposal to boost Europe’s defense industry. While the urgency for defense investment is widely acknowledged, the process — bypassing the European Parliament — raised concerns. “Is this a power grab by the Commission?” Psara asked. EPIC’s position remains clear: democratic oversight is not a luxury, even — and especially — in matters of security.
Finally, the conversation turned to Hungary, where Viktor Orbán’s government continues to challenge democratic norms. From proposed laws targeting foreign-funded media and NGOs to banning Budapest Pride, the EU faces a test not only of its treaties but of its credibility. As EPIC sees it, the question is no longer just what Orbán is doing, but why the EU isn’t stopping him.
At EPIC, we believe that EU reform starts with political clarity: rights before rules, long-term strategy before short-term reaction, and democracy without opt-outs.
Stay tuned for more insights and highlights from EPIC’s appearance on Brussels, My Love? airing on Euronews.
Watch the full episode on euronews.com
