This article is the sixth in a series of eight introducing the Liberal White Book: Europe 2030, the European Liberal Forum’s flagship publication highlighting the challenges that the EU faces and presenting a range of future policy options.  The European Union is frequently portrayed as an ageing international actor that is waning in both power and relevance. The seismic geopolitical power shifts that have occurred across world regions, some involving non-state actors, have only bolstered this unfavourable image and added to the considerable challenges facing the bloc. Such misconceptions about the EU are unnecessary and damaging - especially when the EU actually boasts a number of attributes which rank highly in comparison to those of other global players . On quality of life, for example, the EU still trumps most of the world. To maintain the bloc’s strong position and influence as a promoter of democracy, the EU must improve its global image. It can do so through gradually adapting ...