Europeans are proud of their cultural heritage.
It is part of their lives, from the moment they begin to learn, continuing through their social lives on a daily basis. European diversity forges a common identity that is recognisable across all continents.
This is not to deny the many contributions of other nations, each with their own specific qualities, but simply to note that a unique tradition and attachment has been built on our continent through thousands of years of artistic creation.
From North Cape to the Mediterranean, this way of life, which is the hallmark of Europe, is shared by all.
City plans bear witness to this: at the heart of society there is always a place dedicated to art that resonates within every European as an essential source of fulfilment. For centuries, musicians have enchanted, writers have captivated, poets have dreamed and philosophers have enlightened.
Artists, sometimes even after their deaths, occupy a special place, often unconsciously revered for both a personal and collective quest for another world that transcends time and the moment.
Without competing with religion, which is also one of its vocations, art has permeated European society and often spread beyond its borders in its pursuit of universality.
This sets us apart from many other continents, which sometimes glorify financial success, sometimes brute force or even the indolence of distant islands.
Faced with the reconfiguration of the balance of power around the world, one might see this as a weakness. And many people believe that Europe is being bullied by the powerful.
Of course, this is no excuse for Europeans to fail in preparing to defend themselves or, at the very least, to show their determination to do so. Quite the contrary! Has a “culture war” been declared?
Becoming aware of a true European identity amid the maelstrom of change is already a source of strength that can inspire many joint actions.
Obsessed with their differences, Europeans do not always see what unites them on a global scale. It is a culture rooted in history that drives them towards the rule of law, democracy and respect for the individual.
But in the great battle to reshape the new world, the appeal of their model remains their greatest asset, the foundation of their power.
And of course, it is Culture that we are talking about.
