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When Democracy Falters
Flashmag! Issue 169 February 2026
The way immigration is treated today reveals something more serious than a simple political disagreement. It reveals a democratic crisis. Democracy doesn’ t come down to elections. It rests on fundamental principles: respect for human rights, the dignity of each person, protection of the most vulnerable. These values are engraved in constitutions, celebrated in official speeches. Until they encounter a family of asylum seekers at the border. Suddenly, the words change. Children are detained“ for their safety.” Shipwreck victims in the Mediterranean become“ flows to be contained.” Refugees become“ potential threats.” Each euphemism is a small moral retreat. In Europe, where human rights seemed better anchored, the dikes are beginning to give way. Democratic erosion always begins with words we end up accepting.
The Deep Roots of Exile.
We speak of a“ migration crisis” as if it were a natural, unpredictable phenomenon. It’ s either a mistake or a convenient lie. This crisis is first and foremost political and historical. For decades, Northern countries have exploited Southern resources, supported compliant dictators, turned a blind eye to human rights violations as long as their interests were guaranteed. A phrase spoken at the Davos Forum summarizes this reality with striking brutality:“ Those who are not invited to the table end up being part of the menu.” Excluded from global governance, deprived of equitable development, Southern peoples return through the only door that cannot be completely closed: that of exile.
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