Sánchez and Lula Launch Progressive Global Alliance to Defend "Fragile" Multilateral Order

Spain’s PM Sánchez and Brazil’s President Lula warn of a "reactionary wave" at a high-level Barcelona summit. Read their call for a renewed UN and global order.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 17, 2026, 2:47 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Anadolu Agency and the Spanish Presidency.

A Joint Defense of Democracy in Barcelona

In a high-profile summit that brought together progressive leaders from Mexico, South Africa, and across Europe and Latin America, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and President Lula da Silva issued a passionate defense of the global order. Sánchez highlighted that the "reactionary wave" of authoritarianism and disinformation is currently the greatest threat to social justice and freedom. He argued that the joint initiative launched at the UN is not merely a symbolic gesture but a necessary wall against those who consider the multilateral order "dead." The leaders emphasized that while the world fragments, Spain and Brazil are committed to a vision of "healing wounds" rather than opening new ones through conflict.

Lula: "Artificial Intelligence is Replacing Ethics"

President Lula offered a somber assessment of current global conflicts, specifically pointing to the human cost of the 2025-2026 wars. He criticized the current state of international governance, noting that the United Nations, which was instrumental in the creation of Israel, now lacks the strength to consolidate a Palestinian state. Lula's rhetoric was particularly sharp regarding modern warfare, where he lamented that "women and children are dying, and artificial intelligence is replacing ethics." This moral critique of technology-driven conflict resonates with the broader "One Health" diplomatic approach being discussed in Barcelona, which prioritizes human dignity over algorithmic efficiency.

The Resilience of Multilateralism

Despite the grim outlook on institutional strength, Sánchez remained a staunch defender of global institutions, calling for their reform rather than their abandonment. He noted that the multilateral order has brought "very positive things to humanity" and is the only viable framework for addressing major global challenges such as climate change and systemic inequality. By gathering over 100 organizations and securing the backing of 20 Nobel laureates, the Barcelona summit aims to create a "progressive front" that can influence the upcoming G20 and COP31 agendas, ensuring that the voice of the Global South and progressive Europe is heard in unison.