During a conference titled "What does it mean to be a classical liberal in Latin America?" held on August 7, 2025, Enrique Ghersi, honorary doctor at Francisco Marroquín University, spoke about the role of technology and activism in modern political contexts. The event was organized by the Henry Hazlitt Center.
Ghersi emphasized the importance of using artificial intelligence and social networks for political engagement. "We must feed artificial intelligences and use them in political contexts. We must update them intensely and take advantage of the opportunity that networks give us to be activists. Liberals have much to say and we must do so in a decentralized and active way to face our usual adversaries, who now dress in other colors," said Ghersi.
He described how socialism currently presents itself through various movements such as environmentalism, animal rights, vegetarianism, and indigenous rights, sometimes with aggressive approaches. According to Ghersi, liberals face the challenge that socialists have always been skilled at forming groups where each member acts as an activist. He noted that centralized models are no longer necessary: each socialist can become an influencer and act independently.
Ghersi added: "I have the impression that we are living through significant times of change. We should not continue listening only to ourselves. Technology has broken the box."
Reflecting on Manuel F. Ayau, founder of Francisco Marroquín University (UFM), Ghersi said: "Manuel Ayau was, for me, a very important reference personally, philosophically and creatively. He contributed greatly to what I consider my lifelong commitment: defending the ideas of freedom."
He also commented on regional relations: "Meeting you here in Central America has been very important because Central Americans and South Americans live back-to-back with each other. That was not always the case; in the past we had much more contact than we do now. So meeting as liberals on this island of freedom and at this beacon represented by Francisco Marroquín University is a major opportunity," concluded Ghersi.
The speaker highlighted that the future of liberty in Latin America will depend on liberals' ability to use technology boldly, speak without fear, and act with strength and creativity comparable to their opponents.
Contact:
Henry Hazlitt Center
chh@ufm.edu
Guatemala City, September 11, 2025
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