Democracy Defenders Unite in Barcelona Amid Global Challenges

Progressive and traditional democratic leaders met in Barcelona to address threats to the liberal order caused by rising far-right extremism and global conflicts. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez hosted the event with world leaders like Brazilian President Lula da Silva to discuss democracy, multilateral cooperation, and proposed international initiatives.

In Barcelona, progressive and traditional democratic leaders gathered to combat the global drift towards far-right extremism and conflict. Hosted by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, a vocal critic of former US President Donald Trump, the event aimed to restore faith in the liberal order.

The meeting, attended by leaders such as Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, focused on preserving multilateral cooperation against unilateral moves that challenge international norms. While Trump was not directly mentioned, his policies loomed over the discussions.

Proposals included international efforts to address inequality and environmental initiatives. South Africa plans to introduce a UN resolution on inequality, while Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum urged countries to allocate a portion of their military budgets to reforestation. The meeting underscored the need to preserve democratic and multilateral values.

(With inputs from agencies.)