The world is no longer a global village. Each day, increasingly, what prevails is: “us and them,” “we and the others”. It’s still too early to have a clear picture of the impact Trump’s tariffs will have on the global economy.
But it’s not just the economy that’s being affected. There’s a constant cultivation of the feeling that others, whoever they may be, are exploiting us.
“For decades, our country has been plundered, stripped, trampled upon and torn apart by nations near and far,” the American president claimed when announcing the tariffs.
“For years, hardworking American citizens have been forced to remain on the sidelines as other countries grew wealthy and powerful, partly at our expense. Now it’s our turn to develop”.
Trump skillfully cultivates among citizens the message that they have been victims of others for years. This message has already crossed America’s borders, rallying citizens even more around flags and ethnicities.
In any case, the multiculturalism that was considered an ideal about three decades ago has now ended up being treated as a disgrace.
The only multiculturalism that has withstood the test of time and remains appealing is that we can, in almost any part of the planet, obtain the same things at roughly the same prices: clothes, shoes, food, drinks, medicines, electronics, cars… Not anymore. Not without cost.
The stock markets have already experienced the first tremors. But the turbulence is not limited to the markets. In the ears of citizens, not just Americans, phrases like “they exploited us,” “they deceived us” are echoing…
Who? The others, the foreigners. Whoever they may be. And what dominates is the desire for revenge. Even instinctive and individual boycotts of products have an element of revenge and retaliation.
At whatever cost, in the medium term, with the aim of a future paradise. At least for America, whose citizens dream of trillions and trillions just for themselves.
In a parallel universe, Britain now requires a visa for entry into the country, and Hungary withdraws from the International Court to welcome Netanyahu without any consequences.
Borders are being rebuilt, states are rallying together seeing only enemies across from them, and as the President of the Commission says, “there doesn’t seem to be any order in this disorder”.
However, perhaps something good can emerge if each country examines its own capabilities. For Cyprus, it might be an opportunity to consider how we can stand on our own feet without so much dependence on unpredictable factors.
