Political Violence Undermines Democracy: Club de Madrid Condemns Attack on former President Trump

Club de Madrid strongly condemns the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump perpetrated during a campaign rally on 12 July 2024 and wishes him a speedy recovery. Our thoughts are with President Trump, the other victims of the attack, their respective families and with all Americans.

Political violence is unacceptable. Central to democracy is the possibility of citizens expressing their views, confronting and debating their political differences and resolving their disagreements peacefully. The attack on former President Trump is an act of flagrant political violence in one of the world’s most established democracies that seriously undermines the fundamental principles of democracy and further erodes public trust in our democratic institutions

We call on all leaders and citizens to reject violence and promote peaceful dialogue and unity. It is crucial to tackle polarisation and divisive rhetoric, which only fuel a climate of hostility and can lead to acts of violence. Respect and cooperation in the pursuit of shared goals are essential to democracy and inclusive societies.

The impact of this tragic episode transcends national borders. The international community must unite to condemn such acts and work together to prevent similar future incidents anywhere and everywhere. Global cooperation is essential to maintain peace and stability. In times of crisis, unity strengthens our democracies and sends a clear message that violence will not be tolerated.

We wish former President Trump and those injured in Pennsylvania a swift recovery and offer our most sincere condolences to the families of the victims. We will continue to advocate for peaceful, inclusive and democratic societies,  calling for a united, non-partisan and determined response from democratic institutions to ensure that justice prevails. It is vital to protect and strengthen our democracies, allowing citizens to exercise their civil and political rights freely and without fear of violence.

Club de Madrid reaffirms its commitment to promoting democracy, peace, and inclusive development. We will continue to strongly support and foster democratic principles, practice, stability and peaceful dialogue worldwide.