Oped originally published in Danish in Global NYT.

(Brussels, November 6, 2024) As dawn broke over Brussels, a dense, grey fog settled over the city where I live, mirroring the gloom that was setting in with news from the US. The reality of Donald Trump’s sweeping election victory, and what it represents, and what it possibly will mean for the world was starting to sink in — a reminder of the uncertainty that now clouds the future health of our planet and the respect for human rights and international law.

I feel numb, frustrated, and angry. I’m not a US citizen, but the election of Trump will impact the rest of the world, too. And for those living on the edges of war and crisis—people in Ukraine, in Palestine—the outcome carries the weight of an existential threat. With Trump back at the helm, their lives and the future of their nations literally hang in the balance. And it’s not just them. Trump’s victory is dire news for the planet, for communities already suffering from the devastating impacts of human-induced climate change. His “drill, baby, drill” mantra, his quid pro quo with fossil fuel moguls, and his open disregard for climate agreements mean open season on vulnerable people, environmental protections, and meaningful climate action.

American voters have cast their ballots, and Trump will assume the presidency again with a Republican majority behind him. Bolstered by billionaires and fossil fuel executives, his administration represents a triumph of moneyed interests over decency, lies over truth, exploitation over justice, and self-interest over global responsibility and solidarity. For Trump, his re-election must feel like validation. For many of us non-Americans it’s a hard pill to swallow. I feel ill at the thought of how people in vulnerable parts of the world feel today, knowing that their safety, freedom, and future are threatened. If Trump’s campaign messages are anything to judge by, his policies will seek to undermine progress on climate change, attack our shared international institutions, conventions and agreements, and embolden dangerous attitudes. But bullying and lies do not alter scientific facts.

I’m a Dane living in the European Union’s (EU) capital and the advocacy director for Climate Rights International, and, yes, I am baffled by the US election outcome. But expressing bafflement doesn’t help anyone.

So, here’s my call to the EU: Let Trump’s election serve as a massive wake-up call. Come 2025, the EU, its member states, and other likeminded allies must be ready to dig in, re-energize, and stand up for international human rights law and climate agreements. They should not only defend but also expand these commitments. Don’t expect Trump to stand with Europe in this endeavor. Let history judge and shame him.

So where do we go from here? What did we learn from Trump’s first chaotic tenure? The lesson, in my view, is clear: The EU cannot let a Trump administration dictate a global agenda. Yes, the EU and its member states have to challenge the lies, the bullying, and the self-interest that will likely mark the next US administration. But they cannot allow this to absorb all their energy and time. The EU has to team up with like-minded countries and people around the world and set its own agenda—an agenda of solidarity, action, and progress to defend international law, human rights, basic decency, and urgently needed climate action.

And remember: America is more than its president. The EU should build partnerships with new US allies including US states, cities and mayors, NGOs, activists, scientists, and forward-thinking companies and executives who believe in a future grounded in facts, science, and respect for humanity. These are the US allies with whom Europe can work to advance genuine climate action and defend the human rights of present and future generations.  

The science behind climate change is not a matter of belief or ideology as Trump told American voters. It’s as real and as unyielding as gravity itself. For anyone doubting its reality, the consequences are as sure as a fall from a high window—whether you believe in gravity or not, you will hit the ground. The climate crisis doesn’t wait, doesn’t bend to political games and lies, and won’t spare any of us, no matter where we live or who we are.

So buckle up, Europe. Buckle up, democracies everywhere. The years ahead will test your resolve and demand global action with or, most likely, without the next US administration.

The fog has lifted, and now, more than ever, the fight for our planet and human rights demands strong, principled leadership.