Italian
The Global Citizen Awards ceremony, held in Washington, D.C., saw Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni receive the prestigious award from Elon Musk. In her speech, Meloni emphasized the importance of patriotism and the fundamental values of Western civilization in addressing global challenges.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Global Citizen Awards ceremony took place at the renowned Atlantic Council in Washington, D.C., an event that celebrates individuals and organizations who have distinguished themselves for their commitment to the common good, promoting values of solidarity and cooperation on a global scale. This year, the award was presented by well-known entrepreneur and innovator Elon Musk, who acknowledged the significance of the Italian Prime Minister’s contribution to global leadership and human rights.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni began her speech by expressing gratitude to Chairman John Rogers, President Frederick Kempe, and the Atlantic Council for the prestigious award. She highlighted the importance of celebrating the contributions of Italian heritage to American society, emphasizing the inseparable bond between Italy and the United States.
She expressed her pride in being the first woman to hold the position of Prime Minister in Italy, acknowledging the Italian government’s efforts to reform the country and restore its position in the geopolitical landscape. The Prime Minister stressed the dual nature of political leadership: following public opinion (being a follower) or leading with conviction (being a leader) for the good of the people.
A Different Perspective on National Identity
Offering a fresh perspective, Meloni referenced an op-ed on Western nationalism, suggesting that her political beliefs aligned with a form of positive nationalism, focused on the survival and renaissance of Western civilization. She encouraged people not to shy away from using and defending words and concepts such as nation and patriotism, which go beyond a mere physical location but represent a shared mindset of culture, traditions, and values.
According to the Prime Minister, the West is not just a geographical space, but a value system where all humans are equal and free. She questioned whether these values should be a source of shame, and whether they alienate us from others or bring us closer. She pointed out the dangers of self-loathing and a perceived superiority in the West, warning that this could turn the West into a closed and self-referential fortress.
To address these challenges, she spoke of the “Mattei Plan for Africa,” a cooperation model based on equal partnerships with African countries. She stressed how every crisis may conceal opportunities and the importance of understanding who we are as Western peoples, advocating that we must retain faith in our values.
The Need for Change
Citing contemporary philosopher Roger Scruton’s words on “Oikophobia,” the aversion to one’s own home, which leads to the desire to erase the symbols of one’s civilization, she emphasized the need to begin change from within ourselves in order to understand and respect others.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni concluded by asserting that patriotism is the best response to the crisis of Western civilization, highlighting that defending one’s roots is essential for a better future. She reiterated the importance of learning from our mistakes and facing the seemingly impossible challenges of the present with determination and courage.
