Christian Democracy's future

January 2019 marked the first centenary since the foundation of Don Luigi Sturzo's Partito Popolare Italiano. In my piece for The Times of Malta (1.II.2019), I analyse the past of Christian Democracy while looking towards the future. In both Malta and Europe, over-arching ideas have been replaced by the nebulous concept of "what works". "What works", however, isn't working:

"In the post-Cold War era, politicians seem to be uncomfortable with issues of ideas and political philosophy. There is a general distrust of “grand theories” and “grand visions”.

This may be problematic. “What works” is not good enough in the long run. It may not stand to the scrutiny of time because it does not answer the most critical questions: what is the ultimate goal of politics? What is the underlying view of humankind? What does our present reality tell us about our political needs?

Sturzo understood this. He recognised the need to create broad parties and coalitions to create conditions, which would safeguard the dignity of every human person while helping the common good to thrive. Sturzo dared to see beyond hierarchies and nomenclatures. He never failed to have an over-arching vision for the human person and society. His political vision was all about balance."

The full piece may be read by clicking here.