THE GLORY AND MISERY OF THE CONSERVATIVES

Whether it be Konrad Adenauer or Jean Monnet, one of the founding fathers of the EU: liberal-conservatives and Christian Democrats have often distinguished themselves as successful innovators. Take, for example, European integration, Germany’s alignment with the West, or the social market economy. But is conservatism capable of renewing itself?

Centre-right parties waver between their clear commitment to a liberal, open society and a move towards right-wing authoritarian forces. They often succumb to the temptation to borrow from these populists, who prioritise radicalism over stability. Yet the main opponent of »moderation and the centre« now lies on the right rather than the left: why, in fact, are conservatives exhausting themselves in cultural battles against »woke«, »green« or »red« forces?

Moderate conservatives are the force best placed to challenge right-wing authoritarians. But they are also the force most likely to be swayed by them. In the face of the rise of reactionaries worldwide, Roger de Weck calls for a reaffirmation of principles: in times of disruption, conservatives can embody the promise of stability and an independent Europe – provided they remain steadfastly in the centre-right.

Roger de Weck, born in 1953, is a visiting professor at the College of Europe in Bruges and president of the »Jean Monnet European Foundation«, which manages the archive of the French founder of the EU. He was editor-in-chief of *Die Zeit*, Director-General of Swiss Radio and Television, presenter of *Sternstunden Philosophie* (3 Sat / SRF) and a member of the »Future Council« for reforms at ARD, ZDF and Deutschlandfunk. His book The Power of Democracy, was awarded the 2020 Bruno Kreisky Prize for Political Books. His latest book The Splendour and Misery of the Conservatives was published by Suhrkamp Verlag in September 2026.

Moderation
Robert Misik, Author and journalist

In co-operation with BOOK VIENNA 2026