Liberal democracy leaderless in a growing authoritarian jungle?

GERMAN Chancellor Angela Merkel is the de facto leader of the European Union and, in the wake of United State’s abdication, of Western liberalism. Her announced departure in 2021 throws the future of both enterprises into doubt.

It can be difficult for some to grasp the importance of the transatlantic alliance that for nearly three-quarters of a century has protected democracy, prosperity and peace in Europe, North America and, intermittently, around the globe. American ambivalence and sometimes outright hostility toward the US’ role in the world fuelled the rise of Donald Trump, who as president heaped scorn on Nato and other institutions of international cooperation.