Some have even argued that ideologies and parties are irrelevant in an increasingly fragmented political landscape.

It is globally integrated in the productive processes, trade, financial flows and the communications revolution, yet it is fragmented by the proliferation of conflicts, internal wars, transnational terrorism and ethnic and cultural violence.

If, reflecting the mood in the member states, the elections result in a fragmented Parliament possibly rendered less representative by low voter turnout paralysis, disaffection, and ineffectiveness are guaranteed.

For better or worse, fighting epidemics like Ebola or preventing the most harmful consequences of climate change requires solidarity and cooperation. Retreating into unilateralism, ultra nationalism, or the politics of identity will produce nothing but a bitter, fragmented, parochial, and dangerous world.