In Europe

"What you can do, you also have to do." You may wonder why this simple statement seems like the most important message that I want to remember from this 800-page book about Europe in the 20th century. It belongs to the testimony of a 58 year old romanian professor who is enjoying now the freedom of many things (travelling, expression of opinion) that have been impossible most of his life.

The book "In Europe", originally written in Dutch by Geert Mak, has become so popular that you see it everywhere in the Netherlands and in Flanders. The translated book may be on its way to a similar success in the rest of Europe.

The book takes the reader on a trip to some of the most awkward places in Europe. By telling what happened in these places, the author creates a rather complete overview of all cruelties that mankind has been capable of in the 20th century. The book also shows us how recently the Eastern half of Europe got released from oppression and lies. And in many places, it is not over yet.

When you read this book, you come to the conclusion that we are not doing enough for Europe. Most people claim to be in favour of a more united Europe, but in politics and public administration, only the national interests are at stake. The reason is that the delegates are only elected by their member states of origin and do not have to take responsibility towards other member states. This will never work. Let us hope that the next generation of politicians will do something about this.