Reflection from Zurich: All of us are Barcelona, by Gema Olivar

In recent years, society has realized the importance of acting in unison. Collective responsibility as a way of effecting changes in society is gaining more and more notoriety in contrast to individualistic attitudes. In cities like Zurich, collective responsibility stands out above 'factual dimensions, public health or political consensus'. The attitude of citizens is key.

'In 2012, 65% of citizens rejected by universal vote increasing the number of vacation days that correspond by law to each worker; In 2022, citizens said yes to the increase in the applicable VAT rate to finance pensions,' Olivar exemplifies. 

For these reasons, Olivar considers that 'barcelonians are neither better nor worse than the people of Zurich as individuals', but points out the 'need to raise awareness once again that things do not change, improve or prosper by themselves'. 'We all change things, each one with our contribution', highlights Olivar. 

Read the full article here.

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