Don’t be distracted by the headlines, when truth lies beyond the surface.

Today, we had the opportunity to attend a stimulating dialogue with the Public Diplomacy Vice Consul of the U.S. in Barcelona Nicole Finnemann, on the sociopolitical reality of the United States’ international relations. As the conversation progressed, we discussed how the new administration’s approach to security –pursuing a stronger, safer and more prosperous States– shapes international relations and policy, as well as the reshaping of the international role of institutions such as the UN and NATO. We reflected on how the United States is challenging international institutions, considering that this challenge may be aimed not at weakening them, but at driving change and adaptation, since institutions have historically evolved through being questioned.

The discussion then shifted to an economic and business perspective, focusing on cooperation and shared interests between Catalonia and the United States, with particular attention to differences and barriers in innovation when comparing the Spanish and American models. This led to a broader discussion on the reasons behind the innovation gap and how Europe might improve in this regard. The potential threats posed by AI and the possibility of an escalation of war in the coming years were also addressed as highly plausible scenarios.

However, as was emphasized, everything in the U.S. gubernamental action is about domestic policy, not foreign policy. All the decisions are taken for the wellbeing of the locals. We concluded with the reflection that the United States is not weaker despite what it might seem by the deterioration of its international image; rather, Europe’s fragility appeared to be a point of firm conviction today.

In this context of international instability and unprecedented technological change, my doubts revolve around how markets will evolve within a new global order marked by rising protectionism, deglobalization, and a diminishing need for labor. How can meaningful dialogue be sustained in an era defined by rapid action and growing distrust in public institutions? And, ultimately, are we truly prepared for the times that lie ahead?