The leader of the British Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, presented his vision of future relations between the EU and the United Kingdom and that of the future of socialism, at a conference hosted by the S&D group of the European Parliament, in Brussels on Thursday 19 October.
Meeting to discuss the theme 'A new direction for a progressive Europe', the European socialists invited Corbyn to address them on the Brexit process and socialism.
The Labour leader first of all discussed the question of economic policy, lamenting “years of austerity across Europe”, leading to the dismantling of public services. He described this policy as unacceptable to him as a socialist. He argues that such policies have led to a rise in inequality and have been proven ineffective in tackling refugee flows and the fight against climate change. He went on to regret the fact that socialism has not been involved in the notion of progress in recent years and the nationalist and xenophobic movements have taken advantage of this to draw strength.
In order to reverse the decline in socialism in Europe, the leader of the British Labour Party proposed offering a “clear and radical alternative” that is able to respond to the problems facing citizens and that brings hope. He takes the view that if progressive forces are not able to represent change, they are doomed to failure. This alternative must be translated through regulation, but also through the involvement of public forces and a use of new technologies, which he considers represent both an opportunity and a threat, as seen with the social practices of companies such as Deliveroo, Uber and Amazon.
He went on to argue that socialists have a “responsibility to tackle climate change and global warming” as well as current international crises. “Let us socialists be the voice of diplomacy, of peace”, he added.
Brexit. What the British Labour leader had to say about the United Kingdom leaving the European Union was also greatly anticipated.
Corbyn made his point clearly: there is no question of going back on the results of the referendum on 23 June 2016 (see EUROPE 11580). Instead, he hopes to build a close relationship between his country and the EU, stressing that socialists are natural internationalists. He called on all sides to move forward, with the British Prime Minister, Theresa May, presenting a letter to the European citizens on the Brexit negotiations the same day (see other article).
Using the terms “friends”, “colleagues” and “neighbours” to describe the citizens of the European Union, Corbyn pledged: “we will continue to work with you”. (Original version in French by Lucas Tripoteau)