Europe's Decline: A Crisis of Confidence

For decades, Europe was a global model of prosperity, stability, and social progress.

It had world-class infrastructure, a highly educated population, generous welfare

systems, and a standard of living that much of the world admired — and tried to replicate.

The post-war European project, built on economic integration, diplomacy,

and shared prosperity, turned former rivals into allies, and lifted entire regions out of poverty.

But today, that image is fading. Across the continent, growth is stagnating. Industries are shuttering.

Energy is expensive. Public debt is rising. Young people are leaving. And trust in institutions

is wearing thin. The optimism that once defined Europe is being replaced by anxiety — about