Jacques Santer Quotes

Powerful Jacques Santer for Daily Growth

About Jacques Santer

Jacques Santer (born on May 14, 1937) is a distinguished political figure and author from Luxembourg. He was born in Walferdange, a small village, and spent most of his childhood there. His early years instilled within him a strong sense of national identity and humility that would later shape his political career. After completing his secondary education in Luxembourg, Santer pursued law studies at the University of Liège in Belgium and went on to earn a doctorate in law from the University of Paris. His academic background laid the foundation for his subsequent legal and political career. Santer's political ascent began in 1974 when he was elected to the Chamber of Deputies, Luxembourg's parliament. He would go on to hold various cabinet positions before being appointed Prime Minister of Luxembourg in 1984. In this role, Santer championed economic liberalization and strengthened diplomatic ties with other European nations. In 1995, he was selected as the President of the European Commission, where he sought to deepen European integration and promote enlargement. His tenure was marked by significant reforms in areas such as taxation, competition policy, and social affairs. Beyond politics, Santer is also an accomplished author who has penned numerous books on topics ranging from European politics to Luxembourgish literature. One of his most notable works, "Luxembourg, Petit Pays Grand Monde" (Luxembourg, Small Country Big World), offers insights into Luxembourg's unique history and its role in the global context. Throughout his life, Santer has been a dedicated Europeanist and a champion for cross-cultural understanding. His works and political career reflect this commitment to fostering unity and cooperation within Europe and beyond.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The Union is not a coalition; it is a community."

This quote emphasizes that the European Union (EU) is more than just a political alliance; it's a community. It signifies a sense of shared identity, values, and purpose among its member states. Unlike a coalition, which is a temporary agreement for joint action, a community implies a deeper level of integration, cooperation, and mutual respect. This understanding underscores the unique nature of the EU as a supranational entity that strives for unity in diversity.


"Europe can be more than the sum of its parts."

This quote by Jacques Santer suggests that Europe, when united, has the potential to achieve greater accomplishments collectively than what each individual nation could independently. It emphasizes a concept where the whole (the European Union) is greater than the mere sum of its constituent parts (individual European nations). This idea underscores the synergies and mutual benefits that can arise from cooperation, collaboration, and solidarity among countries within Europe.


"The challenge for Europe today is to turn economic and monetary union into a political union."

The quote emphasizes the necessity for European nations to evolve their economic and monetary alliance, such as the Eurozone, towards a more unified political structure. In simpler terms, Santer suggests that while having a shared currency and economy is crucial, the ultimate goal should be to create a united political entity, where decisions are made collectively instead of individually, for the common good and stability of Europe.


"We must work together to build a stronger, more united Europe that takes its place in the world as a force for peace, prosperity, and justice."

This quote by Jacques Santer emphasizes the importance of European unity and collaboration in order to establish a stronger, influential, and ethical presence on the global stage. By working together, Europe can foster peace, promote prosperity, and advocate for justice, positioning itself as a significant force that contributes positively to the world.


"Europe must not be a fortress; it must be a bridge between cultures."

This quote by Jacques Santer emphasizes the idea that Europe should act as a connector, rather than a barrier, between different cultures. It suggests a vision of a united Europe that promotes understanding, cooperation, and exchange among its diverse societies, instead of focusing on division or exclusion. This perspective encourages dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect, fostering a more harmonious and enriched continent.


I don't attach importance to great speeches or philosophy.

- Jacques Santer

Speeches, Importance, Attach

In a Union of 15 now, you must take into account the sensibilities of everyone.

- Jacques Santer

Now, Everyone, Take, Sensibilities

A quota is always something artificial that can only last for a certain period of time.

- Jacques Santer

Always, Artificial, Period, Quota

You don't help your enterprise with a policy of protection.

- Jacques Santer

Help, Enterprise, Your, Protection

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.