The rest of the blog
Crisis is the word that keeps coming back to haunt us. Whether it’s the crisis of democracy, the crisis of liberalism, or the overarching notion of a time of crisis, we seem perpetually embroiled in a state of polycrisis.
The assassination attempt on Donald Trump has spotlighted a troubling paradox: why do liberal institutions and figures often defend fascist politicians, even when these politicians espouse values antithetical to liberalism? This article delves into the inherent contradictions within liberalism that lead it to shield authoritarian figures like Trump, arguing that these actions reveal a deeper alignment with capitalist interests and a fear of revolutionary change.
The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the weaknesses of global health systems under capitalism, showing how profit-driven intensive farming and environmental degradation heighten the risk of future pandemics, such as the persistent threat of H5N1 avian flu.
Marine Le Pen’s rise in French politics, often attributed to immigration and crime, is more accurately understood as a reaction to the economic exploitation and inequality perpetuated by the capitalist system.
As Farage’s Reform Party gains traction, the rise of right-wing populism across Europe signals a looming threat to UK stability and democracy.
Sidney Lumet’s “The Hill” (1965) is a harrowing exploration of the human cost of military service and colonialism, set against the harsh realities of a British military prison during World War II.
The UK government’s attack on dissent and protest rights echoes a long history of state suppression, revealing a deep fear of the power of a mobilised working class.
The Conservative Party’s recent by-election failures highlight more than just their own incompetence. They point to a fundamental crisis within the capitalist system itself, a system which the Conservatives strive to preserve amidst increasing dysfunction.
From silencing dissent to expanding state powers, the Conservative government is pursuing an increasingly authoritarian agenda that should deeply concern all who value human rights and democracy, argues Simon Pearson. Their inflammatory rhetoric and restrictions on protests, speech, and accountability mechanisms reflect a dangerous slide towards illiberalism.
On a seemingly ordinary Thursday, at the time-honoured Glyndebourne opera festival, an unexpected interlude of protest emerged. In the sanctuary of the arts, amid the melody of Francis Poulenc’s Dialogues des Carmélites, a dissenting chorus brought the opera to a standstill. Sparked by the cause of Just Stop Oil, the interruption blended a traditional form of high culture with the pressing concerns of our era. This is the narrative of that day, a symphony of dissent resounding from the grand opera house to the streets of London.
Here we delve into the radicalisation of former Conservative Member of Parliament, Andrew Bridgen, and his alignment with right-wing populist ideologies. Highlighting the pivotal role of disinformation networks and socio-economic factors, we explore the concerning trend of right-wing radicalisation in the UK, its implications for democracy, and potential countermeasures.
In the twilight of a kingdom, the coronation of King Charles, a stage set to display the shimmering façade of liberty, while the UK government hastens its grip on the throat of protests
In the face of mounting global crises, we must urgently re-envision our asylum and migration policies to foster a more compassionate and just world.
This post explores the growing threat of creeping fascism in the UK political landscape, particularly within the Conservative Party. It examines recent actions by the government, including the exclusion of critical media outlets from the Home Secretary’s trip to Rwanda and the policy to deport asylum seekers, in light of the “creeping fascism” thesis. The post argues that the Tories’ use of jingoistic and anti-immigrant rhetoric is a deliberate tactic to distract from the real issues facing the UK and consolidate their power.
Amidst the drip-drip of fear and hatred in our current political climate, Suella Braverman’s chilling words serve as a stark reminder of the inhumanity that lies at the heart of power.
The UK budget reflects a decade of Tory economic mismanagement resulting in a pay cut economy, growing wealth inequality, and declining quality of life for ordinary people, which can be addressed by boosting incomes, taxing the wealthy, and investing in a green economy.