More than 300 political and civic leaders from 45 countries convened at the Spanish Senate on December 1st–2nd for the VI Transatlantic Summit, organised by the Political Network for Values (PNfV). The two-day event marked the launch of the “Madrid Commitment,” a bold ten-year action plan to protect life, strengthen families, and uphold fundamental freedoms across Europe, the Americas, and Africa.
A highlight of the summit was the election of Croatian Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Stephen Bartulica as the new PNfV president. Bartulica succeeds José Antonio Kast, who held the role for two and a half years. “I am deeply honoured to serve in this new capacity,” he told The European Conservative. “There is nothing more important than defending life and the natural family.”
Addressing the Summit, Bartulica stressed the urgent need for cultural renewal, warning against complacency. “We must recognise that politics alone will not determine the future of our nations; it is the culture that shapes hearts and minds. We cannot afford to give an inch in this battle,” he said. “I call on all of you to persevere, to stand firm, and to inspire others. Our actions here will resonate far beyond these walls.”
The PNfV, established a decade ago, is a global alliance of political and civic leaders dedicated to promoting life, family, and freedom through coordinated action and advocacy. Its biennial summits serve as a platform for collaboration, strategy sharing, and commitment to shared principles.
The Madrid Commitment outlines a five-point agenda for the coming decade. It calls for laws and policies that protect human dignity and life, from conception to natural death; support for family formation and stability; and the promotion of the Geneva Consensus Declaration, which advocates women’s health and national sovereignty. Additionally, it encourages the fostering of a global alliance to ensure the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is interpreted according to its original intent.
Other leaders at the summit echoed Bartulica’s sentiments. Hungarian MEP Kinga Gál remarked, “The family is the cornerstone of our society. By protecting it, we secure a stable future for generations to come.” Brazilian Congressman Nikolas Ferreira highlighted the importance of youth involvement:
Our generation has a duty to uphold timeless values. We must lead the charge in defending life and liberty.
Ugandan parliamentarian Lucy Akello added, “This is a global effort. The values of life, family, and freedom are universal and must be protected in every corner of the world.”
Bartulica, who holds a doctorate in political philosophy and ethics, brings decades of experience to his role. Born in the United States to Croatian parents, he is an associate professor at the Catholic University of Croatia and co-founder of the Centre for Renewal of Culture. Reflecting on his journey, Bartulica said
As someone who has seen the challenges facing modern society, I am convinced of the need for bold leadership. Together, we can turn the tide.
Delegations from over 30 countries, including Argentina, Kenya, and Poland, endorsed the Madrid Commitment. With Bartulica at the helm, the PNfV aims to expand its influence, rallying leaders worldwide to build a culture that celebrates life, protects families, and champions freedom.
