Alastair Campbell urges UK to shape a reformed, resilient Europe beyond Brexit

Alastair Campbell, former director of communications for Tony Blair, has published a new book that blends perseverance and resilience into the coined word “persevilience,” urging people to maintain agency amid global turmoil. He denounces President Donald Trump’s antagonistic stance toward allies, citing the controversial import of Russian diesel and the threat to Ukraine, while insisting the UK should work around, not wait out, Trump’s influence.

Campbell also follows Andy Burnham’s efforts to renegotiate the UK’s post-Brexit relationship, suggesting Britain may need another referendum to re-enter a reformed EU. He envisions a broader Europe that incorporates Ukraine, Norway and the Balkans, creating a stronger third pillar alongside the US and China. The former adviser also reflects on Tony Blair’s role in a US-led peace board, expressing cautious optimism about humanity’s capacity to tackle climate change, AI and other existential challenges.