The rise of far-right parties in the recent EU parliamentary elections signifies a critical juncture for European liberal democracies. As Baruch Spinoza noted, human activities need passion to prosper, and contemporary European politics is seeing a shift from democratic passion to populist obedience. Alexis de Tocqueville's analysis from 1835 highlights the risk of losing independent thought and action among citizens, a concern that is increasingly evident today. The elections reveal a pressing need for moral leadership in European democracy, emphasising the importance of ethical organisation and civic virtue to combat the apathy and challenges faced.

Democracy in Latin America is under threat from right-wing populist leaders, deteriorating public support, and growing authoritarian tendencies. The Economist Intelligence Unit's 2023 Democracy Index reveals that less than 8% of the world lives in full democracies, with Latin America reflecting this through flawed democracies and hybrid regimes. Rising crime, violence, and social unrest further challenge democratic institutions, while populist leaders exploit public discontent, undermining democratic norms. Despite these challenges, the aspiration for democracy persists among many Latin Americans.

The European Union is a peace project based on economic integration and interdependence. Through its internal economic market it aims to guarantee peace and prosperity for its citizens. For economic markets to function properly it is crucially important that some key institutions, founded on values such as rule of law, work properly….

Integrating EU Values in Global Governance: Insights and Implications from the GLOBE Project (2019-2022)

In the face of today's global challenges, the European Union (EU) and its member states are reassessing their strategies to uphold and promote their core values.