Our day in Barcelona shows just how wide-ranging the challenges facing progressive politics have become – and how closely issues of democracy, social justice, climate, labour and the global order are intertwined. The debates centred on the uncertainty felt by an entire generation, shifting power in the global economy, the fight against the far right, fairer taxation and new forms of international cooperation. That is why it was so important to be here today – it became clear for all to see that we have not only analyses of all these crises, but also concrete progressive responses. Time and again, the focus was on regaining trust – through rules that are enforced again, through policies that make a tangible difference to daily life, and through a state that shapes society rather than merely administering it. The summit shows clearly how the future is open, but also that it will not improve on its own. We need to fight for it politically, shape it in a way that is fair and negotiate jointly on an international level. Tomorrow, the second day, we will continue exploring these issues and discuss them with political leaders from different parts of the world. The blog team will be back here tomorrow, bringing you coverage of the GPM. -fw
Katrin Rulle