Marine Le Pen: 'I think that each country must protect its own borders, and that is why I'm simply asking for the abolition of Schengen.'

I think that each country must protect its own borders, and that is why I'm simply asking for the abolition of Schengen.

Marine Le Pen's quote, "I think that each country must protect its own borders, and that is why I'm simply asking for the abolition of Schengen," expresses her belief in the necessity of border protection and her opposition to the Schengen Agreement. In a straightforward sense, she argues that every country should prioritize safeguarding its borders instead of participating in a borderless zone like Schengen. This statement highlights a key aspect of Le Pen's political stance, emphasizing the nation-state's control over its boundaries.However, delving deeper into this topic, we can explore an unexpected philosophical concept known as cosmopolitanism. Cosmopolitans argue for a world in which our identities and responsibilities transcend national borders and emphasize the inherent interconnectedness of all human beings. This concept contrasts with Le Pen's perspective, which prioritizes the protection of national borders over cross-border cooperation.The juxtaposition of Le Pen's quote and the concept of cosmopolitanism raises interesting questions about our collective responsibility as individuals and as members of a global community. While Le Pen's call for protecting borders stems from a desire to preserve national sovereignty, cosmopolitanism challenges us to consider a wider sense of shared humanity that transcends arbitrary national boundaries.The abolition of Schengen, as proposed by Le Pen, would entail returning to a system of individual national border controls within the European Union. It is important to acknowledge that borders play a crucial role in national security and the regulation of movement across territories. However, the Schengen Agreement aims to facilitate the free movement of people and goods, promoting harmony and collaboration among member states. This approach recognizes the benefits of breaking down barriers and fostering interconnectedness.Supporters of Schengen advocate for a unified Europe, where citizens have the freedom to travel and work across national borders without navigating complex visa requirements. This vision of a borderless Europe aligns with the broader principles of cosmopolitanism, promoting a more inclusive and egalitarian society that transcends national identities.It is worth noting that while globalization and cosmopolitanism tend to challenge the concept of strong borders, they also present practical challenges and concerns. The rise of populism and nationalism in recent years has highlighted anxieties surrounding issues such as immigration, national security, and cultural preservation. These concerns, in part, have fueled Le Pen's position on border protection.In conclusion, Marine Le Pen's quote about protecting national borders and her desire for the abolition of Schengen reflects her emphasis on maintaining national sovereignty and control. However, examining this quote in the context of cosmopolitanism provides an intriguing philosophical perspective. While it is essential to recognize the importance of borders for various reasons, it is equally important to consider the potential benefits of breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of global interconnectedness. The debate between nationalism and cosmopolitanism highlights the complexities inherent in finding the right balance between safeguarding national interests and embracing a more inclusive global community.