Asked how progressives can rebuild trust, the panellists offer differing answers though they are clearly interlinked. Magdalena Andersson focuses on winning elections, a return to social democratic roots, and policies that tangibly improve ordinary people’s lives – particularly when it comes to social security and migration. Wayne Swan emphases language, saying progressives must speak in a way that resonates with ordinary people again, and better communicate that economic equality is the foundation of freedom. Tim Klüssendorf also sees the problem as a disconnect between politics and the people. Rather than viewing politics just as a management task, he says we need genuine relationships and systematic solutions to systematic problems. Jameson Timba takes on international institutions and calls for concrete reforms to be made. Paulina Vodanovic says “We know what to do but now we have to do it.” Communication needs to be clearer, we need to act together and “we really need to go out and do our work.” -fw

Katrin Rulle

Paulina Vodanovic of the Socialist Party of Chile warns of the rise of the right. She notes that many countries are witnessing the same trends, which are eroding institutions and democracy. Right-wing forces are forming global networks and pursuing a clear, overt agenda and populist movements are spreading fear. Progressive forces must develop concrete, coordinated measures in response, as time is running out, she says. We must act together now and not give up the struggle for the rights of workers and women. Vodanovic calls for concrete options and progressives worldwide to act in solidarity. -nk

Katrin Rulle