SCHACH DER REFEUDALISIERUNG IN DEMOKRATIEN DES XXI JAHRHUNDERTS

Abstract

Those who walk through publicly accessible historical parks and courtyard gardens in European cities should remember that access to and residence in many of these landmarks in feudal times was intended only for the aristocracy and the clergy. Public spaces today include avenues and squares from earlier centuries, which are surrounded by sacred buildings and palaces, once influential noble families and upper class citizens. In the last few decades, in parallel with the social expansion in a large number of regions, there has been a decline in social achievements towards refeudalization. In this context, an increasing part of public space is being privatized, because some municipalities lack the money to maintain it. On the other hand, some local politicians receive lucrative offers from oligarchs and property owners if they want to redesign public spaces to build modern highrise buildings and housing, exclusive clubs, showrooms, etc. Historic buildings that are on the road have been intentionally left to fall into disrepair. New, strictly guarded facilities built in their place, including private parking spaces, roof terraces with pools, are almost owned by large foreign companies, heads of international corporations and other „modern feudal lords” who form parallel companies. Larger office buildings, including elegantly designed residential buildings and green spaces, are bought by internationally active groups, which - due to inconsistencies in national laws - can significantly evade duties and taxes. Other important „milestones” in a democracy, such as freedom of expression and the press, are being undermined or manipulated.