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DRAFT DOCUMENT FOR DISCUSSION & FEEDBACK PRINCIPLES OF UNITY
Salma Yaqoob and George Monbiot Our Common Ground We believe that the following ten principles and commitments should form the basis of working together to bring about cohesive and integrated ethical domestic and foreign policies in this country for a socially just, green and peaceful world: 1. Progressive Unity A powerful movement for change is emerging as more and more ordinary people who have been campaigning around different issues ranging from opposition to war, environmental issues, freedom for Palestine, civil liberties, pension rights, anti-privatisation of public services etc have begun to work together in a united manner. Increasing numbers of people are concluding that simply protesting against what we don't want in the hope that those in power will be persuaded is not enough. An impetus has thus developed to propose a comprehensive programme which articulates what people stand for - encompassing both ethical domestic policies and ethical foreign policies. One that aims to integrate justice-based economic, social and environmental policies at local, national and global levels, and which stresses co-operation not confrontation, and people not profit as its priorities. We encourage the breadth and diversity of this movement, including people already committed to different political parties, and people who have traditionally been closed out of mainstream politics, to work together to realise such a shared programme. By agreeing a common set of principles, the basis for continued unified action is being laid, such that the political agenda can be shifted away from the current destructive path of neo-liberalism towards one which promotes social justice, harmony with the environment and peace in the world. 2. Participatory Democracy Every human being deserves a say in the decisions that affect their lives. Yet at international, national and local levels we exercise less and less democratic control over these decisions. Corporate power increasingly shapes the parameters and content of our political discourse at global and national levels. The lack of trust in politicians and belief that their opinion changes little has lead to increasing numbers of people disengaging from politics and so having even less say in important decisions. By engaging with people around issues which they care about, and which affect them in the community and workplace, we hope to re-invigorate and expand the notion of participatory democracy. In addition to directly including people in the decision-making process we seek to ensure our public representatives are fully accountable to the people who elect them. We endorse greater freedom of information to the public, as access to information is key to how we exercise our freedom of choice in relation to the issues that continually confront us. To this end we oppose media monopolies and advocate repealing secrecy laws which bar public access to vital information. We hope the way we relate to each other in the movement, and the processes we undergo in our own decision-making reflect the kind of open, inclusive, democratic and tolerant society we aspire to achieve. We recognise that whilst we share many commonalities, differences will remain, and we are committed to be respectful of these differences and not allow them to become barriers to furthering our shared ideals. 3. Social and Economic Justice Everyone should have equal access to the resources they need to live the life they choose for themselves. We are committed to a caring society, in which high quality healthcare and education is accessible to all. A society in which public money is used to pay for public services, benefiting all the people of this country, not to subsidise private companies which benefit only a few – namely a group of politicians, investment bankers, and corporate executives who stand to profit both from the process through which public assets are floated on the market and from the provision of privatized services with the aim of maximizing ‘shareholder value’. We therefore oppose the moves towards privatising public services, including plans for foundation hospitals, and tuition fees for those wishing to pursue an education. The current disjointed and inefficient transport system arising from the privatisation of transport under the previous government illustrates the conflict between private profit and the social interest. The taxation system should reflect the responsibilities of all citizens towards each other in a just and caring society. We therefore endorse a progressive taxation system, whereby everyone contributes to society in proportion to their wealth and income. We oppose the neo-liberal trend of increasing taxes on the poor whilst at the same time reducing taxes on the rich as this only serves to increase the inequalities in society, contravening both just and caring notions of society. We believe that this emphasis on equal access to opportunities for all would not hinder, but foster individual creativity and enterprise which is vital for a vibrant and sustainable economic system. Whilst supporting existing independently owned and operated companies which are socially responsible, we are also encouraging of a new kind of economy which encourages employee ownership and workplace democracy. We oppose the size and concentration of power of certain corporations which can act to undermine democracy, as they can use their considerable resources to further their own profits without regard to the impact on the lives of people and the environment. In the light of various financial crashes in the last decade due to the uncontrolled flow of capital, we endorse the restoration of capital controls to establish some degree of political control of financial markets at the national level. We believe that a successful economic system is one which is able to create jobs and provide a decent minimum wage, for all people, such that decent living standards are secured for all, at the same time as maintaining a healthy ecological balance. 4. Workers' Rights We support the right of people to engage in meaningful work with dignity and which contributes to peoples' 'quality of life'. We support workers' rights to organise, to collective bargaining, to strike, to negotiate working conditions, and to receive a living wage and benefits. To that end we call for the repeal of the anti-union legislation. We advocate people to resist the negative effects of protecting the privilege of a small but powerful group at the expense of the rights and security of the many. Such collective rights need to be secured to truly allow the flourishing of individual empowerment and democracy, as more people have can have a say in, and control over, how their lives are run - as well as strengthening the fabric of society generally by fostering feelings of solidarity. 5. Opposition to Discrimination and Support of Diversity and Equality We are opposed to all forms of discrimination based on race, gender, ethnicity, religious beliefs (or lack of them), sexual orientation, disabilities, national origin or citizenship. We support the right to self-determination of every individual in relation to their religious (or non-religious) beliefs, as well as lifestyle choices. 6. International Justice Our notions of equality and justice will guide our dealings with people outside of our borders, as well as within them. We will seek to apply international law fairly and consistently. We believe that selective military intervention carried out with no regard to historical context cannot bring about peace, only a situation of endless war, which is what we are currently witnessing. We agree that at the root of much of the conflict in the world there lie unredressed injustices. We support the need to address these injustices in a genuine manner so that real and lasting peace in the world can be achieved. In addition to condemning the war in Iraq and calling for an end to the occupation of the Iraqi people, we call for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Occupied Territories. We support the demand of the people of Palestine and Kashmir to self-determination in accordance with UN resolutions which have yet to be implemented despite having been passed several decades ago. We recognise the economic inequalities which have ensured the exploitation of poorer and weaker nations by richer and more powerful nations. We advocate the removal of the special privileges and controls of a few countries which maintain the unacceptable status quo, such that more equitable and just economic and trade relationships can be developed, including addressing the issue of the crippling Third World Debt. The fact that some of the poorest countries in the world are forced to spend a high proportion of their foreign earnings on debt repayments to some of the richest institutions in the world, the banks and governments of the North, highlights the present lack of international justice. We therefore support the call for the immediate cancellation of Third World debt. Furthermore we support initiatives that generate new resources to promote development in poorer countries. In addition to protecting vulnerable people from poverty, by looking to the long-term, we seek to protect valuable natural resources rather than squander them in the drive for short-term profits, with the view that all the children of future generations have a right to share in them. Such an approach re-aligns our policy decisions towards mutuality and interdependence which is a more genuine reflection of how natural systems operate, and hence assures sustainability into the future. 7. Ecological Balance and Sustainable Environment We agree that maintaining an ecological balance and living within the ecological and resource limits of our communities and our planet is an urgent priority. We support a sustainable society that utilises resources in such a way that future generations will benefit and not suffer from the practices of our generation. To this end we must encourage agricultural practices that replenish the soil; move towards an energy efficient economy; develop new technologies and fiscal policies that are responsible to future generations, and live in ways that respect the integrity of natural systems. 8. Promotion of Non-Violence and Peace We believe it is essential that we develop effective alternatives to our current patterns of violence at all levels, from the family and the streets, to nations and the world. We will work to eliminate weapons of mass destruction in all countries. Without being naive about the intentions of other governments and potential enemies, we will work towards reducing the current high levels of militarisation. We recognise the need for self-defence and the defence of others who are in helpless situations. Our actions will be guided toward lasting personal, community and global peace. 9. A Just Immigration and Asylum Policy We are opposed to the scapegoating of asylum seekers and seek to approach this issue with due respect and regard for both the genuinely extreme experiences which have led many people to seek asylum in this country, as well as the fears and concerns of people who are worried that state resources cannot meet demands. Genuine discussion and debate will help distinguish facts from scaremongering, and foster humane rather than hostile attitudes. The issue will not be de-contextualised from British foreign policy which is leading to an increase in refugees across the world, as more countries are subjected to military intervention and insecurity. Furthermore, the issue will not be de-contextualised from the present situation of a widening gap between rich and poor, where conflict - usually manifested as racism - between poor communities is increased as they compete for shrinking resources. 10. A Just Legal System We advocate a legal system that upholds individual liberties and oppose the removal of civil liberties under the guise of 'state security'. We agree that secret trials, and detentions without charge, contravene transparent legal process and are a breach of individuals' rights to justice. We support the development of a humane criminal sanction system that, whilst acting as deterrence to committing crime in the first instance, is genuinely about the rehabilitation of those who have engaged in anti-social activity. The impact on the victims of crime also needs to be fully acknowledged and comprehensive support mechanisms need to be put in place. The justice system needs to incorporate opportunities for offenders to be helped to confront themselves with the consequences of their behaviour and the system needs to be innovative in finding ways to address this issue such that both offenders and victims can be encouraged to minimise the negative consequences of crime. We believe that the quality of our individual lives is enriched by the quality of all our lives. We encourage everyone to see the dignity and intrinsic worth in all life, and to take the time to understand and appreciate themselves, their community and their world. If you as an individual or as part of an organisation agree with the above principles and wish to join the alliance please send e-mail to [email protected]
Our Common Ground We believe that the following ten principles and commitments should form the basis of working together to bring about cohesive and integrated ethical domestic and foreign policies in this country for a socially just, green and peaceful world: 1. Progressive Unity A powerful movement for change is emerging as more and more ordinary people who have been campaigning around different issues ranging from opposition to war, environmental issues, freedom for Palestine, civil liberties, pension rights, anti-privatisation of public services etc have begun to work together in a united manner. Increasing numbers of people are concluding that simply protesting against what we don't want in the hope that those in power will be persuaded is not enough. An impetus has thus developed to propose a comprehensive programme which articulates what people stand for - encompassing both ethical domestic policies and ethical foreign policies. One that aims to integrate justice-based economic, social and environmental policies at local, national and global levels, and which stresses co-operation not confrontation, and people not profit as its priorities. We encourage the breadth and diversity of this movement, including people already committed to different political parties, and people who have traditionally been closed out of mainstream politics, to work together to realise such a shared programme. By agreeing a common set of principles, the basis for continued unified action is being laid, such that the political agenda can be shifted away from the current destructive path of neo-liberalism towards one which promotes social justice, harmony with the environment and peace in the world. 2. Participatory Democracy Every human being deserves a say in the decisions that affect their lives. Yet at international, national and local levels we exercise less and less democratic control over these decisions. Corporate power increasingly shapes the parameters and content of our political discourse at global and national levels. The lack of trust in politicians and belief that their opinion changes little has lead to increasing numbers of people disengaging from politics and so having even less say in important decisions. By engaging with people around issues which they care about, and which affect them in the community and workplace, we hope to re-invigorate and expand the notion of participatory democracy. In addition to directly including people in the decision-making process we seek to ensure our public representatives are fully accountable to the people who elect them. We endorse greater freedom of information to the public, as access to information is key to how we exercise our freedom of choice in relation to the issues that continually confront us. To this end we oppose media monopolies and advocate repealing secrecy laws which bar public access to vital information. We hope the way we relate to each other in the movement, and the processes we undergo in our own decision-making reflect the kind of open, inclusive, democratic and tolerant society we aspire to achieve. We recognise that whilst we share many commonalities, differences will remain, and we are committed to be respectful of these differences and not allow them to become barriers to furthering our shared ideals. 3. Social and Economic Justice Everyone should have equal access to the resources they need to live the life they choose for themselves. We are committed to a caring society, in which high quality healthcare and education is accessible to all. A society in which public money is used to pay for public services, benefiting all the people of this country, not to subsidise private companies which benefit only a few – namely a group of politicians, investment bankers, and corporate executives who stand to profit both from the process through which public assets are floated on the market and from the provision of privatized services with the aim of maximizing ‘shareholder value’. We therefore oppose the moves towards privatising public services, including plans for foundation hospitals, and tuition fees for those wishing to pursue an education. The current disjointed and inefficient transport system arising from the privatisation of transport under the previous government illustrates the conflict between private profit and the social interest. The taxation system should reflect the responsibilities of all citizens towards each other in a just and caring society. We therefore endorse a progressive taxation system, whereby everyone contributes to society in proportion to their wealth and income. We oppose the neo-liberal trend of increasing taxes on the poor whilst at the same time reducing taxes on the rich as this only serves to increase the inequalities in society, contravening both just and caring notions of society. We believe that this emphasis on equal access to opportunities for all would not hinder, but foster individual creativity and enterprise which is vital for a vibrant and sustainable economic system. Whilst supporting existing independently owned and operated companies which are socially responsible, we are also encouraging of a new kind of economy which encourages employee ownership and workplace democracy. We oppose the size and concentration of power of certain corporations which can act to undermine democracy, as they can use their considerable resources to further their own profits without regard to the impact on the lives of people and the environment. In the light of various financial crashes in the last decade due to the uncontrolled flow of capital, we endorse the restoration of capital controls to establish some degree of political control of financial markets at the national level. We believe that a successful economic system is one which is able to create jobs and provide a decent minimum wage, for all people, such that decent living standards are secured for all, at the same time as maintaining a healthy ecological balance. 4. Workers' Rights We support the right of people to engage in meaningful work with dignity and which contributes to peoples' 'quality of life'. We support workers' rights to organise, to collective bargaining, to strike, to negotiate working conditions, and to receive a living wage and benefits. To that end we call for the repeal of the anti-union legislation. We advocate people to resist the negative effects of protecting the privilege of a small but powerful group at the expense of the rights and security of the many. Such collective rights need to be secured to truly allow the flourishing of individual empowerment and democracy, as more people have can have a say in, and control over, how their lives are run - as well as strengthening the fabric of society generally by fostering feelings of solidarity. 5. Opposition to Discrimination and Support of Diversity and Equality We are opposed to all forms of discrimination based on race, gender, ethnicity, religious beliefs (or lack of them), sexual orientation, disabilities, national origin or citizenship. We support the right to self-determination of every individual in relation to their religious (or non-religious) beliefs, as well as lifestyle choices. 6. International Justice Our notions of equality and justice will guide our dealings with people outside of our borders, as well as within them. We will seek to apply international law fairly and consistently. We believe that selective military intervention carried out with no regard to historical context cannot bring about peace, only a situation of endless war, which is what we are currently witnessing. We agree that at the root of much of the conflict in the world there lie unredressed injustices. We support the need to address these injustices in a genuine manner so that real and lasting peace in the world can be achieved. In addition to condemning the war in Iraq and calling for an end to the occupation of the Iraqi people, we call for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Occupied Territories. We support the demand of the people of Palestine and Kashmir to self-determination in accordance with UN resolutions which have yet to be implemented despite having been passed several decades ago. We recognise the economic inequalities which have ensured the exploitation of poorer and weaker nations by richer and more powerful nations. We advocate the removal of the special privileges and controls of a few countries which maintain the unacceptable status quo, such that more equitable and just economic and trade relationships can be developed, including addressing the issue of the crippling Third World Debt. The fact that some of the poorest countries in the world are forced to spend a high proportion of their foreign earnings on debt repayments to some of the richest institutions in the world, the banks and governments of the North, highlights the present lack of international justice. We therefore support the call for the immediate cancellation of Third World debt. Furthermore we support initiatives that generate new resources to promote development in poorer countries. In addition to protecting vulnerable people from poverty, by looking to the long-term, we seek to protect valuable natural resources rather than squander them in the drive for short-term profits, with the view that all the children of future generations have a right to share in them. Such an approach re-aligns our policy decisions towards mutuality and interdependence which is a more genuine reflection of how natural systems operate, and hence assures sustainability into the future. 7. Ecological Balance and Sustainable Environment We agree that maintaining an ecological balance and living within the ecological and resource limits of our communities and our planet is an urgent priority. We support a sustainable society that utilises resources in such a way that future generations will benefit and not suffer from the practices of our generation. To this end we must encourage agricultural practices that replenish the soil; move towards an energy efficient economy; develop new technologies and fiscal policies that are responsible to future generations, and live in ways that respect the integrity of natural systems. 8. Promotion of Non-Violence and Peace We believe it is essential that we develop effective alternatives to our current patterns of violence at all levels, from the family and the streets, to nations and the world. We will work to eliminate weapons of mass destruction in all countries. Without being naive about the intentions of other governments and potential enemies, we will work towards reducing the current high levels of militarisation. We recognise the need for self-defence and the defence of others who are in helpless situations. Our actions will be guided toward lasting personal, community and global peace. 9. A Just Immigration and Asylum Policy We are opposed to the scapegoating of asylum seekers and seek to approach this issue with due respect and regard for both the genuinely extreme experiences which have led many people to seek asylum in this country, as well as the fears and concerns of people who are worried that state resources cannot meet demands. Genuine discussion and debate will help distinguish facts from scaremongering, and foster humane rather than hostile attitudes. The issue will not be de-contextualised from British foreign policy which is leading to an increase in refugees across the world, as more countries are subjected to military intervention and insecurity. Furthermore, the issue will not be de-contextualised from the present situation of a widening gap between rich and poor, where conflict - usually manifested as racism - between poor communities is increased as they compete for shrinking resources. 10. A Just Legal System We advocate a legal system that upholds individual liberties and oppose the removal of civil liberties under the guise of 'state security'. We agree that secret trials, and detentions without charge, contravene transparent legal process and are a breach of individuals' rights to justice. We support the development of a humane criminal sanction system that, whilst acting as deterrence to committing crime in the first instance, is genuinely about the rehabilitation of those who have engaged in anti-social activity. The impact on the victims of crime also needs to be fully acknowledged and comprehensive support mechanisms need to be put in place. The justice system needs to incorporate opportunities for offenders to be helped to confront themselves with the consequences of their behaviour and the system needs to be innovative in finding ways to address this issue such that both offenders and victims can be encouraged to minimise the negative consequences of crime. We believe that the quality of our individual lives is enriched by the quality of all our lives. We encourage everyone to see the dignity and intrinsic worth in all life, and to take the time to understand and appreciate themselves, their community and their world. If you as an individual or as part of an organisation agree with the above principles and wish to join the alliance please send e-mail to [email protected]