38 years without Salvador Allende

 It's been 38 years since 11 September 1973, the day of the tragic death of the Chilean President, Salvador Allende; a socialist who, in contrast with today's neoliberal socialdemocracy, was elected by an impressive popular majority, defended and extended social rights, reinforced institutions of democratic participation and social justice, while he even sacrificed his life to defend the Chilean people and democracy.

In a turbulent period where both social rights and democracy are once again dramatically regressing, the best way to honor Salvador Allende's sacrifice is to salute today's massive and dynamic struggles of the Chilean youth for public and free education and for a better life. Only through such unitarian and massive social struggles in a national, European and global scale will it be possible to reinforce aspirations for a better world, relieved from neoliberal authoritarianism.

 

Brussels, 11 September 2011