Articles
Sunday, June 24, 2018
2018 is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Karl Marx, whose incisive critique of capitalism laid bare its inherent flaws. The financial crash of 2008 demonstrated the truth of his theories and the need for working-class action to challenge the system. This appreciation of his life sets out the essentials of his theoretical writing and his practical political activity.
Saturday, June 23, 2018
An in depth analysis of the different regional and imperialist forces involved in the war in Syria. Although there are positive developments towards resolving the conflict there are vested interests which will not give up the objective of destroying Syria as a unitary Arab nationalist state. The US, Israel and Turkey play major roles in this and are ranged against the Syrian government, Russia and Iran. The conflict demonstrates that the US cannot effect regime change now as easily as it did in other countries in the region.
Friday, June 22, 2018
The fact that there are thousands of people working in conditions of slavery in Britain today is no accident nor the result of a few "bad apples" in the employment industry. Rather it is the result of neoliberal policies implemented by successive Tory and New Labour governments which favour the market over workers interests. The policies which have facilitated this include: immigration, deregulation and cuts to enforcement agencies, casualisation of the labour market, and a punitive benefits regime. Modern slavery in Britain can be tackled by a government committed to rolling back neoliberalism and by stronger trade unions.
Thursday, June 21, 2018
Israel's cold-blooded killing of unarmed protesters in Gaza has highlighted to the world the true nature of Israeli oppression of the Palestinians. Their resistance continues as does the international campaign for Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions.
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Apartheid developed in south Africa along with vicious repression of the non-white population. During most of this time it was supported by western countries and at times the situation of the black majority seemed hopeless. However, apartheid was defeated by the struggles of the South African people and international pressure and campaigns for boycotts and sanctions. This offers hope to the Palestinians today that they can achieve freedom and justice.
Tuesday, June 19, 2018
At the height of the first World War the working-class women of Glasgow took on the landlords who were trying to hike up rents. They won through direct action, solidarity and working class unity. To commemorate this victory and their leader, Mary Barbour, a statue was unveiled in Govan on International Women's Day 2018.
Monday, June 18, 2018
100 years on from some women getting the vote the class dimension to these struggles cannot be ignored. Working class women are faced with many more acute problems such as housing, access to child care, benefits and working conditions than middle class women. Whilst challenging sexism women can also find common cause with working class men in these struggles.
Sunday, June 17, 2018
Labour's local election results in England showed a solid performance despite the efforts of the Tories, the media and attacks from within the party itself.