A Europe in crisis: the challenge of peace after the war
After World War II, Europe was envisioned as a space for reconstruction and reconciliation, struggling to overcome the wounds of national conflicts. This vision was marked by a push towards constitutionalism that guaranteed fundamental rights such as housing, health and education. However, the current escalation of tensions, such as the war in Ukraine, raises serious questions about the future of welfare states on the continent.
The shadow of neoliberalism: a setback since 1979
As the 1970s progressed, the implementation of neoliberal policies, especially under the leadership of Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan, began to erode the foundations of the spirit of 1945. In Spain, the transition to the European Union resulted in reforms that sought to integrate the country into a model of European capitalism, with a direct impact on social rights.
The dilemma of war: Europe between defence and welfare
The current context of war not only affects Europe’s borders, but also has profound repercussions on its societies. The need to invest in a higher military budget endangers resources intended for social welfare, creating a dilemma that could have devastating consequences for the rights of European citizens.
War with a reflex of internal tensions
The war in Ukraine and the conflict in Palestine are not only distant events, but also resonate in European societies, disrupting budgetary and social dynamics. The need to justify increased military spending may erode the foundations of the welfare state, challenging promises of equality and social justice.
The language of war and its implications
As Kapuściński pointed out, war begins long before the first shot is fired. The language we use to describe conflicts can polarize societies, with the European Union showing selective support that breeds hypocrisy and distrust between nations.
Peace as a social construction
Peacebuilding cannot be just a repeated mantra without a solid social base. It requires a collective effort that articulates protest and mobilization to make meaningful change a reality. Social and political conditions must be favorable for the construction of a peaceful and equitable society.
A shared future: the concept of the Earth Constitution
The jurist Ferrajoli proposes a radical vision that goes beyond national borders. His idea of an Earth Constitution seeks to overcome the limitations of current global institutions, which have failed in their mission to maintain peace and justice. This proposal may seem utopian, but it is essential to open the debate on a fairer shared future.
The impact of the Palestinian genocide on the Arab world
The Palestinian cause resonates deeply in the Arab world, but is often exploited by governments that do not seek true liberation. The prolongation of the conflict can lead to violent and destabilizing reactions that affect democracy and social rights in these societies.
The European Union facing a new world order
If the European Union does not act to address the injustices being committed in Palestine, it risks becoming a shadow in a world dominated by dictatorships. Its credibility as a hegemonic power is at stake, and how we manage these conflicts may determine the future of democracy on the continent.
