Talks on day two of the Global Progressive Mobilisation Summit here in Barcelona highlighted what the focus should be now for progressive politics: defending democracy, strengthening social justice, curbing the power of big tech and revitalising international cooperation. The discussions addressed the power of platform operators and the danger of disinformation, how a fairer world order might look, and how to put work, collective bargaining and public services back on centre stage again. The conclusions politicans offered were particularly powerful: Tim Walz called for progressive politics that deliver concrete improvements to win back trust. Lula da Silva made it clear that inequality is a political choice and that we must defend democracy, peace and multilateralism every day. Pedro Sánchez called on us to be proud again as we champion progressive politics, in response to right-wing agitation, social divisions and attacks on democratic values. -fw

Katrin Rulle

Pedro Sánchez calls on people to have faith again in progress and democracy – just like Lula da Silva, who worked as a labourer for years before eventually becoming President of Brazil, he too stands for hope and social advancement through politics. The right wing wants to sow fear and discourage us, but giving up is not an option. A better world with greater equality, more time for family and human dignity is possible, he says. Sánchez criticises oligarchs and billionaires who prioritise profit over health and social rights, and emphasises that politics must be about serving the common good. Progress is not an empty promise, but the right goal and worth fighting for. -nk

Katrin Rulle