In a candid and outspoken foray into European politics, Aleksander Ceferin, the reigning president of Uefa, has voiced his concerns, stating that “freedom of speech has ceased to exist” and venting his exasperation with “political correctness”, which he believes has reached its tipping point.
In a series of comprehensive comments, Ceferin exhibited his displeasure with European politicians for their handling of the Ukraine war, accusing them of “sermonizing the world”. He took a jibe at EU’s achievements, asserting that the only noteworthy thing they have accomplished is ensuring bottle tops are not detachable.
In a discourse with Delo, a popular newspaper from his native Slovenia, Ceferin initially commended his newly expanded Champions League format, calling it “flawless”. However, the conversation quickly veered into political landscape, with Ceferin airing his view that Europe is trailing behind on all fronts due to excessive regulation and perceived moral posturing.
“We ought to unite, but I am uncertain if that is feasible,” Ceferin stated. He called for less market regulation and a more inclusive approach to international relations. “No country, not even China, should be perceived as our adversary — and it isn’t — we should consider everyone as partners. We are quick to dictate others how they should act, but we falter when it comes to practicing what we preach,” he added.
Taking a swipe at political correctness, Ceferin noted, “We are all jaded with political correctness. In the western world, freedom of speech has become a myth. It is no longer permissible to voice your thoughts.” He criticized the rhetoric of right-wing populists, who claim that migrants are usurping jobs and engaging in criminal activities, and that LGBT promotion will lead to the dissolution of traditional families.
Ceferin lamented that such populist narratives are simplistic yet easily understandable. He also argued that mainstream politics and media in the West are addressing people from a perceived intellectual and arrogant position.
In his view, the right to express one’s thoughts has been so curtailed that only standup comedians can speak their mind freely. Consequently, no one counters the right-wing populist narrative. He said, “No one is reaching out to the people, no one is explaining that love transcends sexual orientation or that some people struggle with their gender identity. While it is true that migrants can commit crimes, they are penalized like any other criminals. Mainstream politics needs to introspect why it has allowed this situation to arise. People should not be silenced.”
This bold intervention by Ceferin in the realm of European politics underscores his belief in open dialogue and the freedom of speech, while calling out what he sees as the shortcomings of the current political environment.