The Return of Protectionism?

The spread of free markets and liberal democracy is crucial in this time in history.

But we are beginning to hear louder 'voices for protectionism and nationalism'.
On the G20 (emergency) meeting this weekend we expect to hear pleas for new forms of protectionism from the already highly protective Agricultural Industry.
The mood to allow some kind of protectionism is in Europe already changing, with France as usual in the lead - although Mr Sarkozy seems to be a lot smarter than his predecessors about 80 years ago but he won't stay with Carla forever.

The EU and the USA are experiencing difficult economic times and are very likely to use the instrument of protectionism for convenience. The next U.S. president will also get under pressure from the automotive industry and the unions facing massive layoffs. So, let's see how this is developing, and whether this recession will turn into a depression.