David Miliband: Europe and US need ‘separate bedrooms’ but not divorce

David Miliband: Europe and US Need ‘Separate Bedrooms’ But Not Divorce

David Miliband - At the Hay literary festival, former Labour foreign secretary David Miliband urged Europe and the United States to maintain a “strategic partnership” even as they pursue greater independence from each other. While acknowledging the Trump administration’s influence on transatlantic relations, he emphasized that a complete severance—akin to a “divorce”—would be detrimental. Miliband, who has led the International Rescue Committee since 2013, argued that Europe should carve out its own sphere of influence without abandoning the alliance.

Strategic Autonomy and the Case for Independence

Miliband’s remarks at the event highlighted the importance of Europe’s autonomy in key areas. “The idea that strategic independence means breaking ties with the US is a dangerous one,” he said, using the metaphor of “separate bedrooms” to illustrate the need for a more independent stance. “We must avoid the risk of becoming isolated if we go the full divorce route.” When pressed on the practical implications of this shift, he humorously suggested that Europe should also adopt “separate bank accounts” to ensure financial independence. This, he argued, is essential for maintaining agency in both economic and military matters.

“You can see the argument that strategic autonomy for Europe means divorce from the United States. I really counsel the dangers of that.”

Miliband pointed to the challenges of maintaining autonomy, particularly in defense and technology. “When it comes to purchasing fighters or aircraft, the choice is between European or American suppliers. That’s not just a matter of preference—it’s a test of Europe’s ability to act independently.” He also stressed the complexities of digital sovereignty, noting that AI development represents a significant hurdle for Europe’s self-reliance. “In the AI space, the notion of digital sovereignty is extremely challenging,” he added, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts to establish a robust European framework.

Panel Discussion Highlights UK-US Dynamics

Miliband participated in a panel discussion alongside writer and lawyer Philippe Sands, philosopher Susan Neiman, and moderator Misha Glenny, host of BBC Radio 4’s *In Our Time*. Sands, reflecting on the UK’s relationship with the US, described it as “one-way” and called for honesty in its assessment. “The UK is far more dependent on the US than the reverse,” he said, citing the economic and political reliance the country has developed. “We’ve learned in recent years that it’s time to think about what we truly need.”

“Let’s not have any self-delusion. The UK’s primary connection is with Europe, and that is the way we have to go.”

Sands emphasized that Britain’s future lies in strengthening ties with the European Union, though he acknowledged the challenges. “There’s a lot of work to be done with Macron, or whoever follows him,” he said, highlighting the need for reconciliation with France. He warned that without such efforts, the UK would struggle to be viewed as a dependable partner. “If we don’t align our policies with Europe, France won’t see us as reliable,” he noted, stressing the importance of political and economic integration.

Glenny, the panel’s moderator, expanded on the lessons of Brexit, which has demonstrated the economic risks of disengaging from the EU. “The UK has had a ten-year object lesson in what Brexit means for its economy—regardless of the path taken, the impact has been catastrophic,” she said. This sentiment was echoed by Miliband, who recently called for a “national consensus” on the UK’s position regarding rejoining the EU. His push for unity came after a Cabinet Office official proposed a single market for goods, a plan that was met with skepticism by EU officials.

Reevaluating Global Conflicts

In addition to domestic issues, Miliband addressed the broader implications of global conflicts. He argued that the war in Iran has created a “break in the international system” more profound than the one seen during the Iraq war. “This conflict has fractured the relationship between America and Europe in a way I haven’t witnessed before,” he stated, highlighting the growing mistrust between the two allies. The U.S. and Europe, he suggested, are now at a crossroads, with the former’s policies undermining the latter’s strategic goals.

“This conflict has broken relationships between America and Europe in a way that I haven’t seen.”

Miliband’s analysis of international dynamics also touched on the balance between cooperation and competition. While Europe must assert its independence, he warned against overreacting to U.S. actions, such as its withdrawal from global commitments. “The climate issue is a prime example of where we can’t afford to be held back by America’s retreat,” he said. Europe’s leadership in climate policy, he argued, is not just a moral imperative but a key driver of economic growth and geopolitical influence.

The debate over transatlantic relations reflects a deeper shift in how Europe and the U.S. view their roles in the world. Miliband’s call for “separate bedrooms” suggests a desire for Europe to navigate its own path without being dictated by U.S. interests. Yet, he remains committed to preserving the alliance, even as it evolves. “Divorce is not the answer,” he reiterated, “because the potential consequences of breaking ties are too severe.”

Rebuilding Trust and Policy Alignment

Miliband acknowledged that reestablishing closer ties with the EU could face resistance from Brexit supporters. However, he argued that the current trajectory—of economic and political disengagement—does not honor the principles of the Brexit vote. “If we leave our own economic and security interests behind, we risk making the Brexit decision seem like a mistake,” he said. This perspective aligns with Glenny’s earlier remarks on the UK’s need to learn from its experiences since leaving the EU.

The discussion also revealed the importance of leadership in shaping Europe’s future. Miliband’s vision of a more autonomous Europe contrasts with the UK’s current position, which remains heavily reliant on U.S. support. As the UK seeks to redefine its role, the challenge lies in balancing its historical ties with the U.S. while fostering stronger connections with Europe. “The next prime minister will need to dedicate significant time to working with France and other EU nations to bridge these gaps,” Miliband said, emphasizing the need for sustained diplomatic engagement.