In 2040, at 41 years old, I envision a Europe that is more inclusive, innovative, and environmentally conscious. One of the most important issues for me is sustainable urban living—creating cities that are both technologically advanced and deeply connected to nature. In my ideal future, cities are designed for people, not just for cars. Public transportation is fully electric, efficient, and free, making private cars almost unnecessary. Green spaces are everywhere—rooftop gardens, vertical forests on buildings, and parks designed to promote biodiversity. Smart technology ensures energy efficiency, with homes powered by renewable sources and waste managed through circular economy principles. Work-life balance has significantly improved, with remote and hybrid work models allowing people to live in smaller, sustainable communities rather than being forced into overcrowded urban centers. Education is more accessible, personalized, and lifelong, adapting to individual needs and technological advancements. Socially, inclusivity is at the heart of communities. Policies ensure equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of background, and mental health is given as much importance as physical health. Automation and AI handle repetitive tasks, freeing people to focus on creative, meaningful work. This future is not just a dream but a possibility—one that requires cooperation, forward-thinking policies, and active participation from all of us. By embracing innovation while staying connected to human values, we can create a Europe that is sustainable, inclusive, and thriving for generations to come.

If I could imagine a future for 2040 with more focus on technology, I would like to see a world where advanced technology has improved people's lives in ways we cannot imagine today. It's not just about faster computers or more powerful AI, but a future where technology is fully integrated into every aspect of our lives in a way that makes us more efficient, creative and connected than ever before. In this future, artificial intelligence and machine learning would be common tools in everyday life. AI would be so integrated that we barely notice it anymore. It would help us make better decisions, automate boring and repetitive tasks, and even adapt to our individual needs, making life more efficient and enjoyable. For example, AI systems could help improve human health by predicting diseases before they occur or by optimizing our exercise programs based on our biology and lifestyle. The world would also be full of connected, intelligent devices - from cars that drive themselves and communicate with each other to avoid traffic and accidents, to homes that are fully automated and adapt to our routines. Smart cities would have infrastructure that adapts to the needs of the population in real time, such as traffic flows, energy efficiency and safety. Healthcare would also undergo a revolution, with advanced technologies such as nanotechnology and gene editing not only treating diseases but also preventing them. Diagnosis and treatment would be more precise than ever, with surgical robots working with high precision and wearable devices continuously monitoring our health. People could live longer and with a better quality of life. Education and work would be radically transformed by virtual and augmented reality. We would have access to virtual classrooms or workplaces that allow us to collaborate and learn no matter where we are in the world. This would create new opportunities for both global collaboration and individual development, where we can access the best education and work opportunities without being limited by geographical barriers. And finally, the human experience would also be transformed by technology. Using virtual worlds and brain-computer interfaces, we could experience new types of interactions and experiences, such as traveling to other planets or engaging in fully immersive, virtual experiences that feel as real as the world around us. Technology would not only change what we do, but also how we experience the world and our existence. This future is not about just living with technology, but about becoming more human and creative by using technology as an extension of our own abilities. Technology would be a tool to maximize our potential and create a more dynamic and connected world.

In 2040, climate change is no no longer the biggest issue humanity is facing. Waste is sorted and recycled by the same rules in every European country and is no longer just burned, dumped to a landfill or sent over to third world countries. People, including companies, know there are limited resources, value them and use them in a sustainable way. Food is no longer wasted in stores, items with best before etc. dates are not considered trash but still a valuable product that people in true need can have access to. Also fabrics can be recycled or repurposed.

I would like to see a Europe that is finally united, speaking with one, unanimous voice at international tables. That dares to stand up to the U.S. that thinks it owns the world. In which civil rights are assured for all. A Europe that is much greener and mindful of future generations. A Europe that does not repudiate progress and respects traditions. A secular Europe.