A free Europe threatened by internal and external fires

This week's Economist cover discusses the crisis facing liberal democracies in Europe, highlighting protests across over twenty countries due to economic and political challenges. The article emphasizes the need for a central approach to affordable housing and critiques the current political landscape, where both left and right must collaborate on solutions. It warns of external threats to European unity, particularly from geopolitical tensions involving the US, Russia, and China, and stresses the importance of innovation and defense in ensuring Europe's future. The piece concludes with a call for unity in the face of potential crises within the EU and NATO.