Upcoming European voting - Cardinal Marx voices concerns over increasing nationalism.
Cardinal Reinhard Marx of Munich has boldly expressed his opposition to nationalism. He stated during Tuesday's Pastoral Commission of the Council of European Bishops' Conferences that initiatives like the European Union are essential for safeguarding democracy, freedom, and our core principles. "As a church, we need to be firmly opposed to any nationalist ideologies," he said.
Following the European election, Marx took note of the surge in votes for far-right and nationalist parties, but stressed that "it's not true that a majority of voters have chosen extreme parties and turned against the EU." He remains optimistic that those who desire to dismantle the European Union and ultimately undermine press freedom, democracy, and human dignity are still in the minority.
The Archbishop of Munich and Freising emphasized the importance of battling extremism and destructive tendencies with increased transparency and open communication. Moreover, he stressed that the church itself must play a role in addressing these significant and pressing issues.
Marx emphasized the urgency of cross-border cooperation. "The major global challenges can be addressed only if countries collaborate," he said. Any inclination towards greater nationalism, prioritizing national interests, hinders this cooperation. These issues involve migration, the prevention and resolution of armed conflicts, and the preservation of the environment in the face of climate change.
