Several socialist leaders have highlighted the global relevance of this meeting, held in the Catalan capital. The mayor of Barcelona, emphasized the importance of progressive unity in the face of current challenges.
“"We are more of those who say 'no' to war. We are more of those who say 'yes' to democracy. Millions of progressives worldwide are aware that we must respond to the moment the world is experiencing."
The Global Progressive Mobilization, taking place at the Fira de Barcelona venue in Gran Via, is part of the In Defense of Democracy meeting, with the participation of leaders from 22 countries and high representatives from the European Union and the UN.
The president of the Government, Pedro Sánchez, urged progressive leaders to take action to strengthen democracy, warning of the risk that it could be hollowed out from within while being attacked from outside. He advocated for a renewed multilateral system based on rules and cooperation.
“"It is not enough to resist. We must propose, lead, and demonstrate that democracy is strengthened and perfected day by day. The axis is no longer right or left; it is the defense of democracy."
Furthermore, Sánchez advocated for the need to reform the UN to better represent global reality, be more transparent and inclusive, and proposed that it be led by a woman, considering it a matter of credibility.
The summit brought together seven presidents and seven heads or deputy heads of government, including the president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum; the president of Colombia, Gustavo Petro; the president of Ireland, Catherine Connolly; the president of Uruguay, Yamandú Orsi; the president of Cape Verde, José Maria Neves; and the president of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa. Also in attendance were the prime minister of Albania, Edi Rama, the prime minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, and the prime minister of Lithuania, Inga Ruginien.
