Clear words

They sound calls that seem like alarms in the face of a now evident impasse of the democratic system, as if it were a surplus to be circumvented, as if we did not need it, as if it were reduced to bureaucratic forms to be bypassed. Perhaps it is not all to be blamed on unresolved issues or drifts matured in the "belly" of countries with a long democratic history, but the abstentionism that is spreading and shows no signs of being resolved gives us much to think about, even with some concern.

In the world we know many democracies, which are not governed by clear democratic systems, rather they reveal and hide plots that aim to dominate the people. War resurfaces to decide the fate of peoples, blocks within which self-determination is held back if not prevented emerge again, potentates of various tenors emerge who influence everything, perhaps shielding themselves with democratic appearances. Without forgetting the economic and financial potentates, who influence a bit of everything. And in democracies that still hold up, we often end up in ungovernability due to rigid, ideologically blocked positions, dominated by assorted extremisms. Those who desert the polls seem to leave the field free to those who want to roam unscrupulously in the territories of being together.
While there is a responsible need for respect for everyone and for each. A need to be defended also with the vote. Unfortunately, it is imagined that it is no longer necessary to express one's option at the polling station.

Distrust in institutions and politics is growing, as if it were possible to do without them. Not encouraging signs. But, fortunately, there are also precious "voices" that go straight to the crucial points, having the courage to indicate what needs to be done urgently.
Starting with the President of the Republic who invites us to "love democracy". Yes, this is the format of shared dignity, for democracy to believe in, perhaps to support, to encourage and also to - why not - correct where it gets stuck in unacceptable logic or practices. "The democracy of ghosts", with the unfulfilled vote, draws a risky social horizon.
On the other hand, the heads of the State are expected to be "up to their responsibilities" (Mattarella speaking clearly again). He adds: "Democracy is not limited to its procedures, it is commitment, passion, sense of community". Only in this way can we foster trust in people by sharing the common boat that must not be abandoned.
 

Corrado Avagnina
NP January 2025