A Historic Summit for Global Progress
This Friday, Barcelona witnessed the start of the Global Progressive Mobilisation (GPM), an event that brings together progressive leaders from around the world with the aim of countering the rise of Trumpism and the far-right. The summit, held in pavilion 8 of the Fira de Barcelona, features over 25,000 m² dedicated to debates and presentations aimed at strengthening the foundations of international progressivism.
With more than a hundred speakers from 41 countries, this gathering is not only a platform for sharing experiences but also a tangible demonstration of global commitment to defending democratic values. Notable attendees include Spanish President Pedro Sánchez and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who have driven this initiative alongside organisations such as the Socialist International and the Party of European Socialists.
The GPM addresses critical issues affecting contemporary democracies. On its first day, there was extensive discussion on the impact of social media in the spread of extremism. Various Spanish content creators participated in a panel organised by the Pablo Iglesias Foundation, where issues such as authoritarianism and the challenges faced by new generations against denialist rhetoric were addressed.
Throughout the event, concrete conclusions are expected to be drawn that will serve as a guide for implementing progressive policies in parliaments and institutions around the world. This effort aims to establish ongoing follow-up through future similar summits.
The day will culminate tomorrow with the IV Meeting for the Defence of Democracy, featuring high-profile leaders such as Gustavo Petro (Colombia), Claudia Sheinbaum (Mexico), and Cyril Ramaphosa (South Africa). This meeting is seen as a key opportunity to consolidate alliances among nations committed to democratic principles in an increasingly polarised global landscape.
Despite the media focus on the GPM, another significant event is taking place simultaneously: the first bilateral summit between Spain and Brazil, chaired by Sánchez and Lula at the Palau de Pedralbes. This meeting marks a historic milestone as the first between Spain and a Latin American country, adding relevance to the current political context.
However, not everything has been harmonious at this progressive gathering. Vice President Teresa Ribera has publicly denounced the “enormously aggressive messages” issued by Donald Trump towards international leaders such as Pope Leo XIV and Giorgia Meloni. Ribera emphasised that “no one is convinced by threats,” thus highlighting the urgent need for respectful dialogue between nations.
As this historic summit progresses, many hope it will serve not only as a starting point for concrete actions against extremism but also as a call to unite forces within the global progressive movement.
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