In a recent address at the Munich Security Conference, U.S. Vice President JD Vance criticized European governments for suppressing free speech and discriminating against Christians. He urged European leaders to reverse the ongoing crackdown on conservative voices and religious freedoms.
Vance highlighted incidents where individuals faced legal repercussions for expressing their beliefs, such as the conviction of British Army veteran Adam Smith-Connor for silently praying near an abortion clinic in Dorset, England. Smith-Connor was given a conditional discharge, meaning he would be sentenced only if convicted of offenses within the following two years.
The Vice President also criticized measures like the European Union’s enforcement of the Digital Services Act, which compels social media companies to remove “illegal content” or face significant penalties. He argued that such actions contribute to a retreat from fundamental values and pose a greater threat to Europe than external adversaries.
In response, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier acknowledged the differing worldviews between the new American administration and European governments. He cautioned against losing sight of threats from Russia and China and expressed concern that friction with Washington could weaken long-standing partnerships.
