#Spain #Madrid #Dionisio Gutiérrez #Ibero-America #Fundación Libertad

A Vital Forum for Freedom and Democracy in Ibero-America

From May 20 to 23, 2025, a significant event took place in Spain, organized by Fundación Libertad y Desarrollo—the 6th Citizen Convention. This summit served as a powerful platform for discussing the pressing need to revive freedom and democracy in Ibero-America. Under the stewardship of Dionisio Gutiérrez, a prominent figure in the region, the event brought together former presidents, scholars, and various experts from different fields to engage in crucial dialogues.

Inauguration and Initial Discussions

The convention was inaugurated on May 20 with a special 'Dinner for Freedom' in Madrid. This evening marked the beginning of three days filled with exchanges of ideas and critical analyses of the political landscape in Latin America. Gutiérrez, as the central voice of the gathering, addressed the alarming rise of populism and authoritarianism threatening the stability of the region. He emphasized the urgent need to restore public trust in politics through transparency and ethical governance.

In his inaugural speech, Gutiérrez referred to the profound moral and intellectual contributions of Mario Vargas Llosa, drawing inspiration from his advocacy for democratic values. He underscored the necessity of maintaining a commitment to freedom and democracy, which are indispensable for nurturing successful nations in Ibero-America.

Key Sessions and Collaborations

Day two of the convention featured events at the historic Ateneo de Madrid, co-organized with the Liberty and Democracy Group and the International Foundation for Freedom. Here, Gutiérrez further elaborated on the shared dedication to crafting a pluralistic and institutional Ibero-America. Addressing an audience that included former leaders and lawmakers, he stated, "We must advance liberal principles amid the ideological chaos affecting our society."

The Central Session in Oviedo

The central session occurred on May 22 at the grand Teatro Campoamor in Oviedo. Gutiérrez had the honor of officially commencing the 6th Citizen Convention, captivating an audience of over 1,300 people, alongside numerous media representatives. During this pivotal speech, he delivered a striking message: "Freedom is a battered word in Latin America. We are ensnared by the illusion of freedom constructed by despotic regimes that wield it as a tool of oppression."

In response to this grim reality, he announced the establishment of a Permanent Academic Forum, intended to provide a structured platform for debate and the generation of actionable proposals aimed at improving the region's political conditions.

Concluding Ceremony and Symbolic Gestures

The convention concluded with an emotionally resonant tribute to Ibero-American migration. This special event held at the Archivo de Indianos and Museo de la Emigración in Colombres, Asturias, featured Gutiérrez raising the Guatemalan flag, symbolizing the historic connection between Ibero-America and its diaspora. This tribute recognized migrants as vital contributors to the identity and freedom of their nations, encapsulating the convention's spirit of integration and solidarity.

In summary, the 6th Citizen Convention was not just a gathering but a clarion call for renewed commitment to democratic values and human rights across Ibero-America. Dionisio Gutiérrez's leadership emphasized the importance of defending these principles against mounting challenges, inspiring hope for a future grounded in freedom and democracy.