In an interview realized by Dan Cărbunaru, director of Calea Europeană, Thomas Vaupel, deputy secretary general of the Party of European Socialists (PES) for Central and Eastern Europe, provided details on the key directions of the European social democratic family for the immediate future: progressive mobilization at the PES Congress in Amsterdam (October 16-18), unity among democratic parties in the face of rising right-wing populism, citizen-oriented social and economic reforms, and a clear vision for the European integration of Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova.
What are the main topics you will address at the PES Congress in the Netherlands?
The PES Congress will be a demonstration of unity and openness, under the motto “progressive mobilization.” The PES’s goal is to show that progressives can speak with one voice and work with other democratic political actors to counter populism. Vaupel emphasized that the event in Amsterdam is not just an internal meeting, but a platform for broader dialogue to build bridges between progressives and the rest of the democratic spectrum.
“The main title and theme of the entire event is progressive mobilization. (…) We want to show that progressives in Europe can find a common voice to counterbalance right-wing populist movements in Europe and around the world and to establish a progressive vision for Europe, but also for the development of our society. So we will invite partners from other regions, we will invite civil society, we don’t want to just talk among ourselves.”
How big is the danger of populism and extremism for the European project?
The danger is at its highest, warns Vaupel. Populism and extremism cannot be ignored or tamed through alliances. The solution is responsible cooperation between all political forces. In his opinion, Europe needs a clear distinction between democracy and extremists, and attempts by mainstream parties to co-opt populist parties into government are not at all productive.
“The danger is greater than ever. We must acknowledge that populist and right-wing extremist forces have gained ground. If we look at the European Parliament, the EPP is still a dominant force. The Social Democrats are in second place, which is good. So there is still a majority of pro-European democratic forces, but the right-wing spectrum is larger than ever, and it is not just right-wing populism, but right-wing extremism. So this is a challenge for the European project, and the only way to control this situation is for democratic forces to cooperate reasonably and seriously with each other.”
In the PES’s view, how can the trust of citizens who are increasingly attracted to populist and extremist movements be regained?
The PES strategy focuses on three main areas: 1. Integrity and respect for democratic rules; 2. Policies centered on people’s real needs (cost of living, decent jobs, impact of artificial intelligence); and 3. Strengthening the European project through joint investments. Vaupel emphasized that populism feeds on frustrations related to declining living standards. That is why social democrats are proposing measures to protect incomes, adapt the labor market, and use new technologies responsibly. He also called for a stronger Europe in economic and industrial terms.
“So, for us, the most important angle from which to view challenges is always the impact on people and how we can work to improve their lives. This may not be a grand vision, but it is a very important goal and something that, in a way, may differentiate us from other parties if we strictly follow this goal. (…) New technologies that allow right-wing populist movements to spread their poison at a much higher level.”
Why is the younger generation attracted to these new right-wing extremist movements, and what does the Social Democratic family intend to do about it? Should manipulation on social media be ignored or combated?
The far right knows how to use emotions, especially through social media. Progressives must in turn offer a narrative with positive emotional charge, not just technical data or communication tools. Manipulation on social media cannot be ignored, but neither can the extremists’ agenda be taken up. The PES official explained that it is wrong for progressives to allow themselves to be constantly drawn into populist territory, such as the subject of migration. Furthermore, simply being present on platforms such as TikTok is not enough.
“Don’t ignore danger, face it head on. Let’s tackle our issues (the welfare state, the industry of the future, new technologies). We must do so in an intelligent way, we must think about how to mobilize emotions, and we must also think about which topics to address. It is not enough to have a TikTok channel. You must have emotion behind it.”
What are the Social Democrats’ priorities for the future Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)?
The PES supports a strong Multiannual Financial Framework focused on social and strategic investments, but also on European defense. Thomas Vaupel explicitly listed priorities such as housing, energy and renewable networks, but also consistent support for Ukraine. At the same time, he pointed out that Europe must become more autonomous in terms of defense through joint investments.
“We want a strong MFF that is up to today’s challenges and geared towards future investments in the social field and investments in the renewable energy network, but also to take the next steps in strengthening European defense.
What is the Social Democratic family’s vision for the European integration of Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova?
EU enlargement must be realistic and credible, based on firm conditions, but with early incentives for candidate countries. According to Vaupel, the classic accession process is too slow and risks fueling frustration. That is why the Social Democrats are proposing clear benefits during the negotiations, not just at the end. At the same time, he stressed the importance of respecting the rule of law and fighting corruption, so that the citizens of Ukraine and Moldova can feel the changes brought about by closer ties with the EU.
“The PES’s vision is a European one. We are clear on this for both countries and for the entire Western Balkans region. I believe that now more than ever it is important for Europe to reach out to these regions and offer them a clear and realistic path to European Union membership, because it is absolutely necessary to stabilize this region, to give people a perspective, and we must be clear about this perspective.”
