Olaf Bruns

Hyped as a driver of economic growth, culture has been systematically devalued and marginalised in public policy over the past few decades. This has led to increased precarity now compounded by predatory AI systems. If GDP is not a good metric to measure the value of arts and culture, how should we rethink their role in our societies? This article is part of the upcoming print edition of the Green European Journal, “Acting Out: Arts and Culture Under Pressure”.

Two recent books, by US senator Bernie Sanders and UK Green peer Natalie Bennett, explore ways out of the multiple crises of today, from climate to democracy to labour. Both authors are prominent political progressives criticising the neoliberal paths followed by their respective countries. However, their visions also have important differences. This year marks the largest global election year in history.

What do we do with our borders? The right-wing shift in the European political climate in recent years has meant a higher degree of securitisation. At the same time, some are calling for border controls to be reduced or even abolished. Perhaps the answer lies in a change of perspective; a new outlook free from the shackles of capitalism and inspired by degrowth. Recent national and European elections have marked a shift to the right in European politics.