Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos on 20 January 2026, Ursula von der Leyen delivered a clear message: Europe is entering a new global reality in which economic, energy and security dependencies can no longer be ignored.
Addressing world leaders under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue”, the European Commission President argued that recent geopolitical shocks are not temporary disruptions but structural changes. According to von der Leyen, hoping for a return to the old global order is no longer an option. Instead, Europe must adapt permanently by strengthening its own economic and strategic foundations.
At the core of her speech was the concept of European independence, which she described as a necessity rather than a political choice. From energy and raw materials to defence, capital markets and critical technologies, Europe must reduce its vulnerabilities while remaining open to trade and partnerships. Independence, she stressed, does not mean isolation, but the ability to act, invest and trade from a position of strength.
Von der Leyen pointed to recent trade agreements, including the EU-Mercosur deal, as evidence that Europe continues to choose openness and cooperation while actively diversifying supply chains and de-risking its economy. At the same time, she acknowledged that internal fragmentation still limits Europe’s competitiveness and announced plans to simplify the Single Market through a new European company framework, enabling businesses to operate more easily across borders.
Energy security and affordability were highlighted as central to Europe’s industrial future, with accelerated investment in grids, interconnectors, nuclear power and renewables seen as essential to reducing dependencies and supporting growth. She also underlined the growing link between economic strength and security, referring to increased defence spending and sustained support for Ukraine as part of Europe’s broader responsibility for its own security.
Concluding her address, von der Leyen stressed that European independence must now become a permanent guiding principle. In a world that has changed irreversibly, she said, Europe must move faster, act together and build the economic and industrial resilience needed to secure its future.
