“There is a sort of doubt about freedom of expression here or protection of free speech in Europe,” says Roberta Metsola, president of the European Parliament.

Speaking at the 2025 Munich Security Conference, she addresses Europe’s fractured political landscape. She highlights voter demands for leaders to “act faster and with determination” in defending free speech while admitting that “Europe has not shown enough self-confidence, and these last few days have laid it bare.” As debates on democracy, censorship, and leadership intensify, Metsola reaffirms that European values remain strong. She draws a powerful parallel to Europe’s past struggles under the Iron Curtain, reminding the world that Europeans have fought for and won their freedoms before—and can do so again.

Watch the full conversation: Is the Europe-US rift leaving us all vulnerable?

This conversation is presented by GZERO in partnership with Microsoft from the 2025 Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany. The Global Stage series convenes global leaders for critical conversations on the geopolitical and technological trends shaping our world.