Recent developments in the United States, particularly the rapid restructuring of government institutions under President Donald Trump and the growing influence of figures like Elon Musk, are deeply concerning to me. 

An article in The Wall Street Journal, entitled "Trump Is Changing the World Order With Unprecedented Speed", highlights the unprecedented speed and decisiveness with which the political landscape is being reshaped. The dismantling of democratic structures, the erosion of institutional checks and balances, and the increasing role of private technology giants in governance are not just American problems. They have global consequences - consequences that Europe cannot afford to ignore.

From a psychological perspective, this situation follows a dangerous playbook. James Burnham, in his book The Machiavellians: Defenders of Liberty (1943), argued that political leaders seeking to consolidate power must act quickly and decisively to dismantle existing institutions before the opposition has time to mobilize.

This shock strategy- disrupting the status quo before resistance forms- is unfolding before our eyes. It is designed to create irreversible change while preventing society from organizing an effective counterreaction.

The psychological effects of this approach are deeply disturbing. Rapid and radical change creates uncertainty and fear, leading to polarization and political disengagement. People lose faith in institutions and feel powerless, making them more susceptible to authoritarian narratives. Meanwhile, the normalization of autocratic behavior gradually eroded democratic values, making extreme political actions seem more acceptable over time.

But this is not just an American problem. If the United States withdraws from its role as a global stabilizing force, who will step in? Will China or Russia fill the void, reshaping international politics in ways that further undermine democracy?

If the U.S. abdicates its leadership role in defending democratic values, Europe faces a significant challenge: Can we stand alone against the rising tide of right-wing populism and authoritarianism? Recent political changes in Italy, France, and here in Germany show that democracy in Europe is far from secure. Without a strong transatlantic partnership, the risk of democratic backsliding in Europe grows exponentially.

At the same time, we must recognize the threat posed by technology giants. The fusion of political power and corporate influence over information control is one of the greatest dangers of our time. When unelected billionaires control the algorithms that shape public opinion, they gain outsized influence over democracy itself. If governments fail to regulate this power, we could soon find ourselves in a world where democracy is dictated by tech companies rather than elected officials.

So the question is: What can we do now? How can we, as Europeans and as democratic citizens, prevent these developments from undermining everything we have fought for?

First, we need to strengthen democratic resilience. We need widespread psychological information on SoMe that teaches people to recognize and resist political manipulation. All the Members of Volt in Europe must stand together, fight together, and build a strong, resilient, and united future for our continent.

Second, digital regulation must be a priority. Social media platforms must be held accountable for reducing the spread of manipulative content. Governments must develop independent digital infrastructures rather than rely on private tech corporations for public services.

Third, we need stronger protections for democratic institutions all over Europe. Judicial independence (link), checks on executive power, and international cooperation among democracies must be strengthened. If one democracy falls, the ripple effect could destabilize others.

Europe must forge deeper alliances with nations that are committed to upholding democracy and human rights.

The recent developments in the United States are a warning sign that we in Europe cannot afford to ignore. We must wake up, take action, and strengthen the principles that bind our societies together - NOW!!!. Because if we fail, the erosion of democracy will not stop at the American border - it will reach us sooner than we think.

This fight cannot be won alone. All of us in Europe must stand together, fight together, and build a strong, resilient, and united future for our continent.