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🇰🇷 South Korea /Elections & Politics

The Time for International Solidarity is Now

From Hankyoreh · (9h ago) Korean Positive tone

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Progressive leaders from Spain, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, and South Africa convened in Barcelona for the 'Global Progressive Mobilization' conference and the 4th 'Defending Democracy' meeting.
  • The Global Progressive Mobilization aims to create a broader platform for social democratic parties and progressive movements across continents, bridging European and Latin American progressive forces.
  • The initiative underscores the urgent need for international solidarity among progressives to counter the rise of the far-right and address global challenges like climate change and inequality.

In Barcelona, a significant gathering of progressive leaders from around the globe has taken place, signaling a renewed push for international cooperation and a united front against the rising tide of right-wing populism. The 'Global Progressive Mobilization' (GPM) conference, held alongside the 4th 'Defending Democracy' meeting, brought together figures like Brazil's President Lula da Silva and Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who have been vocal critics of the Trump administration's policies and the actions of Israel in the Middle East.

The gathering of these leaders itself was a protest against the Trump administration, drawing the attention of the entire world.

— Jang Seok-junDescribing the significance of the leaders' assembly in Barcelona.

The GPM represents a crucial step in consolidating progressive forces, particularly by bridging the gap between European social democracy and the distinct progressive movements in Latin America. Historically, European social democratic parties have often focused inward on EU politics, while Latin American left-wing movements have forged their own paths through forums like the São Paulo Forum. This new initiative, co-founded by the Party of European Socialists, Socialist International, and the Progressive Alliance, seeks to create a more inclusive and expansive network.

The 'Defending Democracy' meeting was initiated by President Lula and Prime Minister Sánchez to counter the rise of the far-right and attempts to undermine democracy.

— Jang Seok-junExplaining the purpose of the 'Defending Democracy' meeting.

What makes this gathering particularly timely is the palpable sense of urgency. The spread of far-right politics, the overt displays of fascism, and the slow response to critical global issues such as climate change, deepening inequality, and the refugee crisis are creating a sense of existential threat. The article emphasizes that nationalistic approaches are no longer sufficient; progressives must look beyond their borders to share wisdom, experiences, and coordinate actions to steer humanity towards a better future.

The Global Progressive Mobilization is new because it has crossed continental boundaries.

— Jang Seok-junHighlighting the inclusive nature of the GPM.

This movement reflects a growing demand for international solidarity from the grassroots. Citizens are increasingly recognizing that global challenges require global solutions, and that online and offline connections between movements in different countries are vital. As the era of neoliberal globalization wanes, a new form of 'people's globalization' is emerging, driven by the need to collectively address the complex problems facing the world. This gathering in Barcelona is a testament to that evolving global consciousness.

The urgency to engage in international solidarity is paramount now.

— Jang Seok-junEmphasizing the critical need for collective action.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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