"In the 21st century, we are defined not by our borders, but by our bonds," said then President Obama. The idea that all humans are morally equal had led globalists to look past strict borders in favour of pro-immigration policies. Those who defended nationalism or patriotism were often seen as bigoted. In 2024, UN data showed the number of international migrants worldwide reached 304 million, double the 1990 figure. Under Biden, immigration to the US was the highest in history. But populist parties are now ushering in a new era of anti-immigration, anti-globalist politics – with public support. YouGov found that most people in large European countries think immigration has been too high and has had a negative impact.

Must we divide human beings up in some way, in order to pool resources and create stability, and are nations the best way to do this, or not? And should the culture and values of a country be protected, or should they be allowed to shift and change, even if that means they might one day become unrecognisable?