It feels that while the young people are trying to fight for a

In the age-old stories of humanity, there has always been a tension between the dreams of the young and the realities imposed by those in power. The words of Hector Bellerín—"It feels that while the young people are trying to fight for a world where there's equality, everyone's the same, everyone's helping each other, we want to take care of the planet... it seems like the people that are ruling and are being presidents right now want to do it the other way round"—speak to the profound disillusionment felt by many as they witness the clash between the aspirations of the youth and the actions of the leaders. In these words, we hear a cry for a world of justice, where people come together to protect one another and the Earth, a world that seems in stark contrast to the forces of greed, division, and destruction that some in power continue to pursue.

In the ancient world, the struggle for a just society was no less fierce. The philosophers of Greece, like Plato and Aristotle, often debated the nature of justice and the role of leadership in society. Plato’s ideal republic, for instance, was one in which rulers, the philosopher-kings, would act in the best interest of all, ensuring equality and harmony among the citizens. Yet, history has often shown that those in power rarely have the interests of the people at heart. Aristotle, in his writings, warned against the dangers of tyranny, where those in positions of power would act out of their own self-interest, to the detriment of the common good. This struggle between the idealistic visions of youth and the reality of leadership has remained a constant throughout time.

Bellerín's words are a reflection of this ongoing tension between the dreams of the young and the actions of those in power. He speaks of a world where equality and care for the planet are central values—a world where humanity and the Earth are seen not as separate, but as interconnected and worthy of equal protection. Yet, the forces that rule today seem to act with a different vision—one that seeks to divide rather than unite, to exploit rather than protect. The youth of today, much like the philosophers of ancient times, are dreaming of a world that reflects the highest ideals of justice, while those in power often seem to focus on their own interests and the perpetuation of systems that benefit the few.

Consider the historical example of Mahatma Gandhi, whose fight for Indian independence was not just about freeing his people from British rule, but about creating a society where equality and justice were foundational. Gandhi’s message was clear: true freedom is not merely political, but moral, and it requires the empowerment of all individuals, regardless of their background or status. He often spoke of non-violence and self-sufficiency, encouraging his people to care for the land and for one another. Gandhi’s vision for a just society was one where individuals came together to work towards the greater good, not divided by their differences, but united in their common humanity. In contrast, the colonial rulers of his time were focused on maintaining control, exploiting resources, and oppressing the people, much as some of the leaders of today seem to do.

Bellerín’s frustration is palpable because he sees a world where the young are striving for a future that embodies the very ideals of equality, compassion, and environmental stewardship, yet these efforts are being undermined by those who hold the power. It is as though the leaders are on a path that leads us further from the world that the youth are trying to build. The young, with their vision of a world that cares for the planet, that upholds equality, and that fosters community, are often met with resistance, not from lack of desire, but from the forces of greed and self-interest that shape much of modern politics and economics.

The lesson we take from Bellerín’s words is one of action and resilience. It is not enough to simply dream of a better world; we must fight for it. The youth of today, much like the philosophers of ancient Greece, must continue to push for a society where the ideals of equality and justice are not mere aspirations, but living, breathing realities. As citizens of the world, we all have a role to play in shaping the future—whether by advocating for policies that protect the environment, fighting for equality, or simply standing firm in our belief that a better world is not only possible but necessary.

In your own life, take these words to heart: dream of a world where equality and justice are central, but know that dreams are nothing without action. The world that Bellerín envisions is one where the youth do not wait for change to come, but where they rise to create it. Whether it is in your local community, your workplace, or on the global stage, recognize that your voice and actions can help shape the future. Equality, environmental care, and solidarity are not just ideas to be admired; they are ideals that must be fought for, defended, and brought into reality by those who believe in them. Stand firm in your commitment to these values, and work toward a future where the dreams of justice and equality are not only achieved, but lived every day.