Anti-globalisation: What do we want?
Rev Simon Rumble | 26.02.2001 22:54
The media and general public see a single, united front amongst anti-globalisation protesters. We are seen simply to want to turn back the clock and stop globalisation in its tracks. However, is there a middle ground, a more reasoned response to the problems globalisation brings?
The Left always has the problem of being overly consultative. This means we end up squabbling amongst ourselves while our opponents trample over us with a unified, PR company co-ordinated viewpoint. The ragged left end up looking like a bunch of hairy, unemployed ideologues opposing ideas for the sake of it.
What we need to offer in our opposition is an alternative, some demands, in order to constructively impact the globalisation debate. Of course we must back this up with more and more action, but the stick of direct action needs a carrot that lets the drivers of the globalisation movement see a way out.
Here are, perhaps, some starting points for discussion. I have to point out that I don't personally see globalisation as necessarily a force solely for evil. I also don't see how it can be turned back and the only way we can make a positive difference is through critical engagement.
1) Free trade only accompanied by standardised environment and labour laws.
2) Free trade must mean everyone plays: America and Europe can't keep their doors closed while accusing smaller nations of breaking the rules.
3) Ratifying and implementing the Kyoto Convention on Global Warming is a pre-requisite to the rollback of any further trade barriers. That mean you Dubya Bush!
4) A comprehensive reassessment of the World Bank.
5) Environment and labour laws to be policed with full access given to NGOs.
What are your thoughts?
What we need to offer in our opposition is an alternative, some demands, in order to constructively impact the globalisation debate. Of course we must back this up with more and more action, but the stick of direct action needs a carrot that lets the drivers of the globalisation movement see a way out.
Here are, perhaps, some starting points for discussion. I have to point out that I don't personally see globalisation as necessarily a force solely for evil. I also don't see how it can be turned back and the only way we can make a positive difference is through critical engagement.
1) Free trade only accompanied by standardised environment and labour laws.
2) Free trade must mean everyone plays: America and Europe can't keep their doors closed while accusing smaller nations of breaking the rules.
3) Ratifying and implementing the Kyoto Convention on Global Warming is a pre-requisite to the rollback of any further trade barriers. That mean you Dubya Bush!
4) A comprehensive reassessment of the World Bank.
5) Environment and labour laws to be policed with full access given to NGOs.
What are your thoughts?
Rev Simon Rumble
e-mail:
simon@rumble.net
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