Actions speak louder than words! Solidarity

Overcoming crises together

But the term ‘solidarity’ has not only been omnipresent since the Ukraine war. It was used repeatedly during the pandemic, too. Peter G. Kirchschläger is not surprised that the word is currently on everyone's lips. The 45-year-old theologian heads the Institute for Social Ethics ISE at the University of Lucerne, and his work includes advising national and international organisations. “We all experience moments when we need help. On the other hand, all people are able to provide help in certain situations.” This has been more true than ever in the last two years. “The coronavirus crisis made it clear to us that humans, as lone warriors, do not survive the virus and its consequences on their own, but only as part of society,” writes Janine Seitz in the trend study “Die Welt nach Corona”. We can only overcome difficult times by sticking together. This insight might also be an impetus behind the great sense of solidarity people feel with the refugees from Ukraine.

However, according to Kirchschläger, one key point should not be forgotten: “True solidarity always includes all people.” So anyone who helps one part of the people and ignores the needs of another group or excludes people is not acting in solidarity. As an example, Kirchschläger cites the fact that there is currently a debate about there being “first and second class” refugees. The fact that parts of the global community still lack access to the COVID-19 vaccine also reflects a lack of solidarity. “What is more, genuine solidarity always involves concrete deeds and actions," says Kirchschläger. Symbolic expressions of solidarity – such as demonstrating for peace – are also significant, but they are not enough on their own. “Solidarity is only when the living conditions of those affected really are substantially improved.”

Offers of help are all the buzz

Although there certainly hasn’t been unanimity on all issues in the past two years and there has even been talk of a split in society, Kirchschläger’s assessment is essentially a positive one. All the suffering that the pandemic has inflicted on society has caused many people to worry about what really matters to them. “We’ve become more conscious of principles such as freedom, human dignity, human rights and democracy," says Kirchschläger. “The majority of the population has also succeeded in sharpening their sensory perception for others and taking care of one another.” Many people supported each other – for example, they went shopping for the elderly and sick. In addition, organised support services have been launched in many places, ranging from Facebook groups such as “Basel hilft” to apps that bring helpers and those seeking help together. More and more people seem to be willing to actively offer their support and get involved in the community. According to the Federal Statistical Office, people in Switzerland spend an average of 1.6 hours per week on voluntary work – this includes involvement in youth organisations, political parties, sports clubs and the local fire brigade, for example.

Consumerism is becoming less of a priority

Trend expert and futurologist Janine Seitz assumes that the growing solidarity that developed during the pandemic will have an impact on trade and consumerism in the future. The crisis experience has unleashed a deep-seated need for more conscious, social enjoyment – “not at the expense of others, but together with others”. This also includes the realization that a pleasurable, fulfilling life does not depend on the number of consumer items you own or use. “This is why consumerism for consumerism's sake will fade into the background in the future,” says Seitz. “This new focus reflects a return to what is really important to us.”