Emmanuel Macron: 'Sovereignty is not just at the national level; that's the mistake of Brexit that other people make.'

Sovereignty is not just at the national level; that's the mistake of Brexit that other people make.

In his insightful quote, Emmanuel Macron highlights the misconception of Brexit and emphasizes that sovereignty goes beyond just the national level. At first glance, the quote seems to be a simple critique on the decision of the United Kingdom to leave the European Union. Macron asserts that Brexit was a mistake because it focused solely on national sovereignty rather than recognizing the interconnectedness and importance of a broader sense of sovereignty. However, this quote also invites us to explore a deeper concept – that of a shift from the traditional notion of sovereignty to a more interconnected and global perspective. It prompts us to question our understanding of sovereignty and its implications in a rapidly evolving world.Traditionally, sovereignty has been viewed as the supreme authority of a nation-state to govern itself and make decisions within its borders. This understanding of sovereignty often emphasizes the independence and autonomy of individual nations, placing immense value on national identity and control over one's own affairs. Brexit can be seen as a manifestation of this understanding, with the UK seeking to reclaim sovereignty from the EU and regain control over its borders, laws, and regulations.However, Macron challenges this narrow perspective, suggesting that sovereignty should not be confined only to the national level. To grasp his point, let us explore a philosophical concept known as 'cosmopolitan sovereignty.' This concept envisions sovereignty as a collective responsibility that transcends national boundaries and emphasizes the interconnectedness of nations and the world as a whole.Cosmopolitan sovereignty recognizes that in an increasingly globalized and interdependent world, issues such as climate change, human rights, and economic stability cannot be effectively addressed solely by individual nation-states. It acknowledges that there are shared challenges and opportunities that require collaborative and collective action. By embracing cosmopolitan sovereignty, nations recognize that their own well-being and security are intrinsically tied to the well-being and security of others.This understanding of sovereignty aligns with Macron's assertion that Brexit failed to acknowledge the importance of a broader sense of sovereignty. By prioritizing the national level, Brexit overlooked the complexities of a globalized world and the need for collective solutions to shared challenges. It is not a rejection of national sovereignty, but rather an expansion of it to incorporate the recognition that the decisions made by one nation have repercussions and implications beyond its borders.By shifting our perspective to cosmopolitan sovereignty, we can foster a greater sense of global citizenship and recognize the responsibility we have towards each other and the planet. This broader understanding of sovereignty enables nations to collaborate, pool resources, and find common ground in addressing global issues more effectively.In essence, Macron's quote serves as a reminder that sovereignty should not be confined to the national level alone. It prompts us to think beyond the boundaries of our countries and explore the significance of interconnectedness and collaboration on a global scale. By embracing cosmopolitan sovereignty, we can navigate the challenges of our world in a more interconnected and holistic manner, ultimately leading to a more harmonious and prosperous future for all.