The declaration is issued by the Europe Panel. Inititated by José Manuel Durão Barroso (Former President of the European Commission), Klaus Regling (Former Managing Director of the ESM), André Loesekrug-Pietri (Chairman and Scientific Director of JEDI), Othmar Karas (President European Forum Alpbach), Antonella Mei-Pochtler (Vice President European Forum Alpbach), Andreas Treichl (Chairman of the Board of ERSTE Foundation) and Martin Schoeller (Entrepreneur)–the Europe Panel Committee–the declaration outlines concrete steps to enhance Europe's security architecture, technological leadership, and strategic autonomy in an increasingly volatile and protectionist global environment.

European Defence Union

A call for stronger coordination of military forces, centralized procurement, and an increase in defense spending to 3-4% of GDP is necessary and affordable. The declaration also advocates a European DARPA-like agency to lead in AI, cyber, space, drones and defense technologies, ensuring Europe remains at the forefront of innovation.

Recognizing that economic power is the foundation of sovereignty, the declaration emphasizes the urgent need for completing the EU Single Market, fostering AI-driven productivity, and enabling strategic investments in manufacturing, energy, and cloud infrastructure. Regulatory adjustments, more trade agreements and a capital markets union are crucial for stronger growth and Europe's global competitiveness.

With rising security challenges, the declaration urges increased private and public investment in defense, technology, and infrastructure. It calls for new European financing instruments, such as a European infrastructure bond market, and incentives to retain capital within Europe to fund innovation, more public procurement and military readiness. A temporary increase in fiscal deficits and debt, compatible with European and national fiscal rules, will be necessary to strengthen defence capabilities, innovation and growth immediately.