President Connolly in Spain to attend democracy event President Catherine Connolly is making her first overseas trip to Spain as President of Ireland to speak at an international democracy conference. She traveled to Barcelona to address the 4th meeting of the “Defence of Democracy” event, following an invitation by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The gathering brings together a dozen heads of state and government from around the world to confront challenges posed by extremism, polarization, and disinformation, which organizers say are eroding social cohesion and threatening democratic institutions. President Connolly’s speech will emphasize the importance of strong multilateralism and the need to uphold international law, the United Nations, and human rights. In a statement ahead of the meeting, she said: “At a time when voices calling for war and military might are dominant, it is timely and fitting that we gather under an initiative championed by two leaders who have shown the political courage this moment demands. Prime Minister Sánchez and President Lula deserve our recognition, and our gratitude, for placing the defence of democracy at the centre of the international agenda.” She added: “Ireland is uniquely placed to offer a valuable perspective as a neutral, post-famine, post-colonial republic. At this crucial moment, we must work with all those who share our views to deepen international cooperation, and to nurture and develop conditions for lasting peace.” Participants at the event have also warned about rising inequality and the risks posed by the irresponsible use of digital technologies. President Connolly will hold bilateral meetings with fellow participants during the summit. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva warned ahead of the gathering that allowing “setbacks” to democracy could lead to the rise of authoritarian regimes like Hitler’s. Speaking at a joint press conference with Sánchez in Barcelona, Lula stated: “Because when there is a setback, a Hitler happens.” The “Defence of Democracy” forum was launched by Brazil and Spain in 2024 as a platform to exchange ideas aimed at combating extremism, polarization, and misinformation that undermine participatory democracy. The event in Barcelona is focused on strengthening democratic processes amid global political tensions, including conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran, as well as trade disruptions linked to U.S. Tariffs under former President Donald Trump. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said the multilateral order “must be improved” and “renewed,” which will be central to discussions at the summit. Leaders including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa are expected to attend the progressive leaders’ meeting in Barcelona.
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