As a co-founder of HER-autism voluntary team, a social anthropologist, and a mother of three — including a ten-year-old, non-speaking autistic daughter — I envision a Europe that genuinely embraces diversity, not just as policy, but as everyday practice.

Diversity is not a problem to be managed. Whether that diversity stems from age, gender, origin, disability, or health status, it should be welcomed and reflected in all aspects of life.

Disability is one of the many expressions of the human experience. With nearly one in four people in the EU living with some form of disability, societal inclusion is not a marginal issue — it is central to democracy. I strongly support the establishment of an EU-wide Personal Assistance scheme, founded on autonomy, choice, and dignity. It’s a meaningful step toward empowering individuals to live fully and independently.

Likewise, ethical, inclusive technology holds enormous potential to improve communication, accessibility, and daily life for people of all abilities and all generations. When guided by empathy, technology becomes a powerful equalizer.

As Europeans, we must also ensure that our institutions speak in clear, inclusive language so that all citizens can understand, participate, and be heard.

Empathy must become a fundamental part of political dialogue as a democratic necessity. The policies we shape today will define the solidarity and fairness of tomorrow.

A Europe for all is not a dream. It is a responsibility.