Rethinking Europe: Welfare cuts in the age of defense
The Financial Times claims that Europe should reduce spending on the welfare state to defend itself effectively. The British newspaper cites aging societies, the need for reforms, and militarization as reasons for this.
Europe is faced with the necessity of transforming its model from a "welfare state" to a "war state." This stance was presented by a commentator from the British newspaper "Financial Times."
According to them, the continent must cut social expenditures to effectively defend itself.
"Financial Times" emphasizes that the modern welfare state in Europe is a result of specific historical circumstances that no longer exist. In the past, American contributions to NATO allowed European governments to spend more on social programs. Additionally, the lack of economic competition from China and India and a younger population favoured such a model.
Aging societies, the need for reforms, and closer ties to the USA
Currently, however, demographics are changing for the worse. In the 1960s, only 13% of Britons were over the age of 65; today, that figure is already one-fifth. Similar changes are happening in Germany and France. Spending on pensions and healthcare is increasing, burdening the working part of the population.
"Either way, the welfare state as we have known it must retreat somewhat," evaluates "Financial Times." The author of the commentary suggests that the current political situation, including changes in US policies, might force difficult but necessary reforms. The goal of these actions is Europe's survival in a changing world.
The Financial Times notes that a more militarized Europe could resemble the USA, paradoxically bringing the two continents closer together. "Europe and America could end up looking much more like each other than they ever did as two blocks of a cohesive "West, the newspaper emphasizes. Such a change could be viewed as ironic, but it is essential in the face of current challenges.
