ODI’s Post

We need a working-class party with a socialist and anti-imperialist perspective that is completely independent of the Democratic National Committee and the bosses. Toward that goal we are putting forward for discussion and debate with the whole vanguard and the left, a platform for a working-class party that fights for socialism and the rights of all of the exploited and oppressed:

Can we still think of #feminism as a liberatory collective movement against the status quo and the multiple regimes of oppression? A movement that will not be constrained to the realm of identity politics and individualization?

Far right problem, or male violence problem. My Conversation piece about the violence, and how gendered ideologies underpin it. https://lnkd.in/eqahmURf

In this article on Medium, I reflect on how we need to combat extreme views to retain our Democracy. #democracy #extremism #manipulation https://lnkd.in/es4uNbqx

Shifting Norms: Political Culture and the Changing Landscape of Oaths and Pledges in Polarized America #politica #political #politicalchallenge #Shifting #shiftingrealities #ShiftingNarratives #oaths #viralpostds2024 #googletrend #viralpost https://lnkd.in/d5Gh-EDc

I am glad to share my latest article with my colleague and friend Eileen Taylor, which addresses the complex rise of far-right ideologies in today's socio-political landscape in Europe for Politics4Her: "Crossroads: The Rise of the Far Right and the Future of Europe". Throughout the article, we explore five different case studies around Europe and how they paint a wider scene of political discontentment, rising violence and inequalities. As these ideologies gain ground, it's crucial to delve deeper into their origins, impacts, implications and challenges they pose to our democracy. We focus especially on impacts for more vulnerable communities, such as women, people of colour, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities and with less socioeconomic means. "In a world where every breath is political, we are constantly confronted with political choices and decisions - the simple act of “being” is political. However, being our true selves is a privilege for some. (...) In the upcoming European elections, voting is also an act of resistance." https://lnkd.in/dVaQfFEB #Article #Democracy #FarRight #Europe

🌐 Fanning the Flames: The Disconnect Between Politicians and the People 🔥🗳️ The fabric of a thriving democracy is woven from the intricate relationship between politicians and the people they represent. Lately, it seems that threads are unraveling as politicians disconnect from their voters, inadvertently fueling extremism. It's time for a candid conversation about why recognizing the fears, problems, and needs of the people is not just a gesture but an essential duty. 🤝 Representative Democracy: A Bond Under Strain In a representative democracy, politicians bear the responsibility of steering a nation on behalf of its people. Yet, a growing disconnect is palpable. As representatives, the duty extends beyond the ballot box; it's about actively understanding the concerns and aspirations of the electorate. When this connection weakens, the void becomes fertile ground for extremism to take root. 💬 Transparent Leadership: The Antidote to Extremism Transparency is the cornerstone of effective leadership. Politicians must not only make decisions on behalf of their voters but also transparently communicate the reasoning behind those decisions. When the decision-making process becomes opaque, a vacuum forms, filled by speculation and mistrust. Extremism thrives in the shadows, where the light of transparency is absent. 🔍 Understanding Fears and Problems: A Necessary Step Why do many people turn towards extremism? Often, it's a consequence of feeling unheard and unseen by those in power. When politicians fail to recognize and address the fears, problems, and needs of their constituents, frustration mounts. Extremist ideologies, however misguided, can appear as an outlet for those who feel neglected in the political landscape. 🚀 The Call to Reconnect: A Shared Responsibility Reconnecting is not just a political obligation; it's a shared responsibility. Politicians must actively engage with their voters, listen to their concerns, and address the root causes of discontent. Simultaneously, citizens must actively participate in the democratic process, holding their representatives accountable. 🌐 Building Bridges, Not Walls: A Path Forward The path to combating extremism involves building bridges of understanding. It requires politicians to recognize the genuine fears and concerns of their constituents and respond with empathy. Only through this connection can we foster a political landscape that is resilient against the divisive forces of extremism. Let's initiate a dialogue about reconnecting, understanding, and building bridges. What are your thoughts on the role of politicians in fueling or mitigating extremism? How can we collectively ensure that our democracy remains a beacon of representation and transparency? 🗣️🌍 #Democracy #Leadership #Extremism #RepresentationMatters #TransparencyInPolitics

Shifting Norms: Political Culture and the Changing Landscape of Oaths and Pledges in Polarized America #politica #political #politicalchallenge #Shifting #shiftingrealities #ShiftingNarratives #oaths #viralpostds2024 #googletrend #viralpost https://lnkd.in/dyrHt_9b

It breaks my heart to see what has happened to the U.K this weekend. Seeded through austerity and emboldened by Brexit, these horrific racist riots are the direct result of decades of normalised drip fed racism and Islamophobia. Some politicians have enabled it and right wing media has fuelled it. People of colour, and Muslims in particular, have been scapegoated for the years of economic hardship and political failure. I have received messages this weekend from friends saying they are scared, not only for themselves but their families. This situation should be unimaginable in 2024. However, for many it is just the veneer being removed and the ugliness being there for all to see. This is an important time to check ones own privilege and to not only listen to what we have all been told, time and time again. But to act. We need to all ask ourselves if we are doing enough as individuals, colleagues, businesses, friends and family members to fight inequality and racism. There will be many people who feel a lot less safe today than they did last week. We need to put our arms around them. We need policies targeting the cause of these conditions and we need to always remember there's more that connects us than divides us. I say "we" because we are all in this together. We all want a fairer society and a brighter future for the next generation. So therefore we all need to do what we can, to actively make society celebrate our hopes, not our fears. Let's lead with a mission of love and unity. Hold those accountable who stand in the way of a fair, diverse and vibrant society and to stand up to racism and discrimination in all forms. Support the vulnerable. And lead by example in inspiring belief in a better world and a fairer society. #unity #equality #antiracism