Davos 2026: Macron says EU must not bend to bullies or abandon rule of law

Agencies

Davos, Switzerland

French President Emmanuel Macron warned against a world where rules don’t matter. He stressed that as global tensions rise, the EU shouldn’t give in to ‘the law of the strongest.’ Macron insisted that respect, science, and the rule of law are crucial, rejecting bullying and brutality in favor of a more principled approach.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday warned against a drift towards a rules-free global order, saying the European Union (EU) should not submit to “the law of the strongest” as geopolitical tensions rise, including with the United States.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Macron said it was “staggering” that the EU was being forced to consider using its anti-coercion instrument against the US, underscoring growing strains in transatlantic relations.

“We do believe that we need more growth, we need more stability in this world, but we do prefer respect to bullies,” Macron said. “We do prefer science to conspiracies, and we do prefer rule of law to brutality.”

Without naming him directly, Macron’s remarks came amid threats and policy moves by US President Donald Trump, including comments about taking over Greenland and proposals to create and lead a new global “Board of Peace.”

“The world is experiencing a shift away from rules and international law,” Macron said, warning of a return to “a world without rules, where international law is trampled underfoot and where the only law that seems to matter is that of the strongest.” He added that what he described as “imperial ambitions” were resurfacing.

Macron reiterated that France and Europe remained committed to national sovereignty, independence, and the United Nations and its charter. He cautioned against what he called new forms of imperialism and colonialism, saying the current moment demanded cooperation rather than coercion.

Calling on global leaders and businesses to refocus on shared challenges, Macron said efforts should be centred on growth, peace and climate action. “We want peace. We want growth. We want climate and investment, innovation,” he said, stressing that cooperation was essential to address these priorities.

“Let’s not waste time with crazy ideas. Let’s not open Pandora’s box,” Macron added. “This is a time of cooperation in order to deliver peace, prosperity and the decarbonisation of our economy for our fellow citizens.”