Justice, Not Austerity: Unresolved Challenges for 2025 

Why Europe Must Act Now to Address Austerity, Rising Costs, Inequality, and Climate Justice 

The Eurobarometer survey ahead of the 2024 elections revealed rising prices and the cost of living as Europeans’ top concerns. Yet, as we enter 2025, these challenges remain unsolved. The Party of the European Left questions whether the European Commission is doing enough to deliver change. 

Roland Kulke, Dagmar Švendová

The 2024 European elections are behind us, but the challenges they highlighted remain as urgent as ever. The Eurobarometer survey conducted before the European elections made it clear: rising prices, the cost of living, and economic inequality were the primary concerns for European voters. Now, as we enter 2025, these pressing issues are far from resolved. 

The European Commission’s approach has not delivered the transformative change needed. Instead, it appears to double down on the same failed policies of the past, policies that prioritize austerity and protect the interests of the wealthy while leaving working people to shoulder the burden of economic crises. 

The Party of the European Left believes it is time for a radical shift. We propose a path that prioritizes justice, equality, and solidarity over the entrenched interests of the few. 

A New Vision for Europe’s Economy in 2025 and Beyond 
It’s time to fight poverty, not the poor. The challenges of rising prices and growing economic inequality demand bold solutions. Our vision for a people-centered economy includes: 
Right to Housing for All: Democratic economic planning in collaboration with trade unions and municipalities to secure affordable housing for everyone.
Lowering Costs of Living: Immediate action through antifascist economic policies to bring down the prices of essential goods and services. 
Climate Justice for the People: The climate crisis continues to disproportionately impact the working class, not the wealthy. We reject false solutions like carbon offsets and geoengineering. Instead, we demand to “Keep Fossil Fuels in the Ground” and invest massively in renewable energy. 
Just Transition for Workers: Public investments in a green economy, ensuring energy access for all, with workers leading the transition. 
Peace Over Militarization: Despite NATO’s push for higher defense budgets, EU states already account for 15.4% of global defense spending. We oppose further militarization and demand investments in peace and social progress instead. 

A Call for Accountability and Action 
The lack of progress on these vital issues raises a critical question: is the European Commission doing enough to address the challenges of our time? As 2025 begins, the answer appears to be no. Rising prices, a worsening cost of living, and deepening economic injustice demand urgent and transformative action. 
The Party of the European Left remains committed to fighting for policies that place people at the heart of Europe’s economy. The challenges of 2025 and the years ahead require courage, vision, and solidarity. 
It’s time for real change—before it’s too late. Together, we can build a future of justice and equality for all. 

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