The 35th European Green Party Council: Riga

We invite you to join us in Riga, Latvia, on 3-5 June 2022. We are looking forward to gathering as a family once again in these unique times to shape our political action and elect the new Committee of the European Green Party. Come participate and contribute your ideas on how to fight for a more free, peaceful, and democratic Europe that addresses the social, economic and climate crises today.

We are living through unprecedented times. Not only have we faced the COVID-19 crisis and more alarming news about the climate crisis this year, but we are now facing war on the European continent. Annalena Baerbock, German Green Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs, put it well: “We woke up in a different world.”

For the first time, the foundations of post-war Europe – which have granted us the European Union and its unique era of peace and democracy – are being challenged. At the same time, a change in the political landscape has slowly been occurring in the last decade: iron-fisted autocratic rulers have unfortunately gained ground and far-right ideology has entered the political mainstream.

As Europe is entering a new paradigm, we must be open, as a political family, to challenge our own assumptions and to open discussions around critical questions: How can we secure the sovereignty of European countries? What is the best path to energy independence? How can we ensure a just transition in times of crisis? And most importantly – what should our approach be to enhance freedom, peace, and democracy in Europe?

Putin’s invasion of Ukraine has been unequivocally condemned by the Green family, and we must do our utmost to stand with the people of Ukraine. The threat that Putin’s war poses to freedom, peace and democracy in Europe must not be underestimated. We will be discussing our defence and security policy, including our policies on humanitarian support, welcoming refugees, the importance of cybersecurity and the role of disinformation, as well as the evolution of the NATO alliance.

To ensure our peace and security, we must make pragmatic choices now whilst also working towards our long-term vision for the future of Europe. Our plans must include establishing energy independence, massively investing in renewables, enhancing our energy efficiency, and saving to ensure energy for all. At the same time, our fight against climate catastrophe and for climate justice must continue to be at the forefront of our priorities.

We will also engage actively in a debate on the future of Europe as a whole: from the upcoming French elections to the upcoming COP27. In views of the upcoming European parliament elections in 2024, we also need to start discussing our approach towards transnational lists. More than ever, the Greens have an opportunity to provide solutions to emerging problems and shape the future of a more democratic, fair, and united Europe.

We look forward to sharing more information with you about the 35th European Green Party Council in the coming weeks. We already encourage all Green party members and delegates to save the date and join us on 3-5 June 2022.