Mattarella Praises Democracy’s Role in Countering Nationalism in Gorizia

Gorizia: President Sergio Mattarella on Saturday commended the resilience of democratic societies in combating the rise of sterile and perilous nationalisms. He expressed these views while receiving an award in the northeastern Italian city of Gorizia.

According to Ansa News Agency, Mattarella attributed the success of this democratic journey to the citizens, highlighting that mature societies have developed effective mechanisms to resist the allure of damaging forms of nationalism. The Italian head of State emphasized the detrimental impact such nationalisms can have.

During his acceptance speech for the 25th edition of the Premio Santi Ilario e Taziano – Citt  di Gorizia, Mattarella shared the honor with former Slovenian President Borut Pahor. He reflected on their shared efforts to foster a friendship between Italy and Slovenia, which he described as not only a civic and institutional duty but also a crucial responsibility for ensuring a peaceful future for Europe.

Mattarella remarked on the severe consequences that Italy, Slovenia, and Europe have faced in the past due to the dangerous alternatives to this project of unity and peace.