Shaky Ground: What Trump’s Return Means for Europe—and Us All
The winds of political change are sweeping across the Atlantic once more, carrying with them a familiar scent of division and uncertainty. The resurgence of former President Donald Trump on the global stage has sent ripples through transatlantic relations, challenging the fragile equilibrium that binds Europe and the United States. This shift isn’t just a replay of past conflicts; it’s a new chapter in a story where democracy, human rights, and social justice hang in the balance.
As an investigative reporter with a deep-rooted connection to Latin America and Europe, I’ve witnessed firsthand how policies shaped by political ideology can ripple across continents, affecting the lives of millions. Trump’s return isn’t just a US affair; it’s a European issue too. It threatens to undo years of progress on climate action, refugee protection, and women’s rights—values that are deeply intertwined with the fabric of both regions.
Climate Change: A Shared Crisis
Climate change knows no borders, and the stakes have never been higher. The Paris Agreement was a beacon of hope when it was signed in 2015, uniting nearly 200 countries, including all EU member states, to combat global warming. But Trump’s administration notoriously pulled out of the agreement in 2017, dealing a blow to international efforts.
Now, with Trump back in the political arena, there are fears that his influence could lead the US to backtrack on its climate commitments once again. This would have dire consequences for Europe, which has been a global leader in sustainable energy and environmental policies. The EU’s Green Deal aims to make the region carbon-neutral by 2050, but without American cooperation, achieving this goal becomes exponentially harder.
In Spain, where I’ve covered renewable energy projects, local communities are already feeling the strain of inconsistent US policies. If Trump succeeds in reshaping the climate narrative, it could set off a chain reaction across Europe, with countries questioning their own commitments and shifting resources away from green initiatives.
The Refugee Crisis: A Test of Humanity
Europe’s borders have been a battleground for migrants seeking safety from conflict and persecution. The 2015 migration crisis tested the continent’s collective conscience, as millions fled Syria, Afghanistan, and other war-torn regions. While progress has been made, the situation remains precarious.
Trump’s hardline immigration policies were a defining feature of his presidency, with drastic measures like separating families at the border leaving lasting scars. His return could embolden far-right groups in Europe, which have already sought to exploit migration as a wedge issue.
In Poland and Hungary, where anti-immigrant sentiment is on the rise, there are concerns that Trump’s influence could exacerbate tensions. These countries have been resistant to EU efforts to distribute asylum seekers more equitably, and with Trump’s backing, they may feel emboldened to dig in their heels further.
For vulnerable communities caught between conflict and expulsion, this isn’t just a political game—it’s a matter of survival. The stakes are clear: if Europe fails to uphold its values of hospitality and human dignity, it risks losing its soul.
Women’s Rights: A Global Struggle
The fight for gender equality is under threat on both sides of the Atlantic. Trump’s presidency was marked by rollbacks in reproductive rights, with his administration supporting anti-abortion policies that limited access to healthcare for millions of women.
In Europe, progress has been uneven. While countries like Spain and Sweden have made strides in promoting gender equality, others lag behind. Poland’s recent attempts to restrict abortion rights have drawn international condemnation, echoing the battles fought in the US under Trump.
The interconnectedness of these struggles is evident. Women’s rights groups across the Atlantic are working to protect access to healthcare and combat gender-based violence, but with Trump’s influence growing, these efforts could face new challenges. The global fight for equality must remain a priority, lest gains be rolled back.
Democracy Under Siege
The very fabric of democracy is at risk as authoritarianism rears its head once more. In the US, Trump’s false claims of election fraud have eroded trust in democratic institutions, creating a dangerous precedent that could inspire similar efforts elsewhere.
In Europe, this erosion has already begun. Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has been accused of undermining press freedom and eroding judicial independence, mirroring tactics seen under Trump’s leadership. The parallels are unsettling: when democracy is attacked from within, it weakens the institutions that protect us all.
The rule of law must remain sacrosanct, both in Europe and beyond. Any erosion of democratic norms—whether through gerrymandering, disinformation campaigns, or attacks on the media—threatens to unravel progress made over decades.
Economic Inequality: A Shared Struggle
The pandemic has only exacerbated existing inequalities, leaving low-income communities bearing the brunt of economic hardship. Trump’s policies were often framed as pro-growth, but they disproportionately benefited the wealthy, widening the gap between the rich and poor.
In Europe, similar trends are evident. The gig economy is thriving in cities like Madrid and Berlin, offering flexibility but often at the expense of worker protections. If Trump’s influence encourages a shift toward deregulation, it could worsen these disparities.
The push for economic justice must remain a priority. Policies that ensure fair wages, access to healthcare, and social safety nets are essential to building a more equitable society—one where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, not just survive.
Looking Ahead: The Power of Unity
Europe’s response to Trump’s return will define its role on the global stage. Will it stand firm in defense of progressive values? Or will it succumb to pressure and backtrack on hard-won gains?
The answer lies in our collective ability to unite across borders, ideologies, and identities. The challenges we face—climate change, migration, women’s rights—are too great to tackle alone. By working together, Europe and the US can reaffirm their commitment to justice, equality, and human dignity.
A Call to Action
This is a moment of truth—not just for Europe or the US, but for all of us who believe in the power of progressive values. The stakes could not be higher: will we allow divisions to deepen, or will we rise together to build a brighter future?
The answer lies in our hands. Let’s choose hope over fear, unity over division, and justice over inequality. Because when we stand together, we can move mountains—and create a world where everyone has the chance to thrive.
This article was written as Luis Gomes, investigative reporter with a focus on human rights and social justice across Latin America and Europe, drawing from years of experience uncovering stories that resonate globally.
About the Author:
Luis Gomes is Investigative Reporter at our publication. Reporter with a background in investigative journalism, focusing on human rights and social justice. Luis has worked across Latin America and Europe, uncovering stories that resonate globally.
Journalist and photographer with a focus on Middle Eastern youth and their cultural contributions. Aisha’s work bridges traditional and modern storytelling in the region.
Writer and researcher specializing in Asian arts and migration stories. Bella’s work explores how young Asians are shaping global culture through their experiences.
Reporter with a background in investigative journalism, focusing on human rights and social justice. Luis has worked across Latin America and Europe, uncovering stories that resonate globally.
Sarah is a seasoned journalist with over 15 years of experience in global news and media. She has led teams in some of the world’s most challenging reporting environments, bringing a vision for storytelling that connects cultures and empowers voices.