Eurosocialism

European Union

This article is part of a series on the
politics and government
of the European Union

Modern European socialism,[1] usually known as European socialism [2] or simply Eurosocialism,[3] is the dominant version of social democracy in the European Union.[4] It is a centre-left political position drawing on social notions such as social progress, freedom, equality, solidarity and justice.[5] Socialism in Europe is primarily associated with the idea of progressive and social policies, which are mainly advocated by the PES and primarily opposed by the conservative and christian-democrat European People's Party. European socialists are defined (or define themselves) with one or more of the following terms: social democrats, liberal socialists, social liberals,[note 1] christian socialists, labourists and progressives. They support the values of europeanism and have the goal to establish a federal Europe.

PES Declaration of principles

The following declaration of principles has been adopted by the PES (Party of European Socialists) Council on 24 November 2011.

Preamble

"Socialism and Social Democracy have a long and proud history of achievement. The welfare state, universal access to education and to health care, and the struggle for fundamental rights have improved the lives of countless individuals and created more equal, just and secure societies. In the 21st century, our movement continues to shape a better future for all. Freedom, equality, solidarity and justice are our fundamental values. These universal values belong together. Democracy is a prerequisite to their full expression. Combined, our values form our moral compass to build progressive societies in today’s world. These are societies in which individuals do not struggle against each other but work together for the benefit of all. These are thriving, trusting societies which take care of their environment now and as an investment for the future. These are societies in which each and every person is able to create the conditions for his or her emancipation. Our values are being challenged. People, money, goods, information and ideas travel incessantly. But the reality of deregulated globalization provokes a more fragmented sense of living. Market forces, driven by finance and greed, are annexing huge amounts of power from democratic control. These forces serve the interests of a privileged few. Conservatives and neo-liberals, have deepened economic, geographic and social inequalities, promoting a system of short-termism, easy profits and loose rules that has led to the worst crisis in modern times. We reject the politics of pessimism that claim that nothing can be done. We reject the language of hate that makes people, and whole communities, scapegoats for the ills in societies. Instead, we work to build inclusive societies and a better future for all. We need a new progressive global agenda to enable the fruits of globalization to benefit all. This is a matter of political choice and responsibility."

Principles for actions

Conclusion

"To put our principles into action in a world of economic, social and cultural interconnection, new progressive politics linking local, regional, national and European levels are needed to regain democratic control. A comprehensive approach to policy making that integrates all levels of governance is the guarantee to making each and every individual’s life more secure in the global, multi-polar age. A progressive, democratic European Union, with solidarity between European people’s and countries, reinforces democratic sovereignty on the national level on one side, and the international on the other. Our commitment to European integration transcends competition between countries and reflects our determination to oppose the erosion of social rights. It embodies our pledge to build a European Union with lasting common political, social and economic realities, not only provisional cooperation between governments. There can be no political decision making without democratic control, no economic Union without a social Union, and no social Union without a common budget to support investment and reduce inequalities in the European Union. Alongside a political and economic European Union, an integrated Social Europe is crucial to improve the living conditions for citizens, in all countries indiscriminately. Our historical task is to work towards a progressive harmonization within a political Union, making it a tool for justice and emancipation. A political voice that is truly progressive is needed in Europe. Unified action by the socialist, social democratic, labour and democratic progressive movement in the European Union and throughout Europe, and in cooperation with our partners within civil society and trade unions is required. The Party of European Socialists embodies these principles for action. Together, we will continue."

See also

Footnotes

  1. In Europe, supporters of classical liberalism are found in centrist parties, while supporters of other versions of liberalism are found also among conservatives and progressives. See Democratic Party (Italy)#Ideological trends, Socialist Party (France)#Factions etc...

References

  1. Modern european socialism
  2. What is a socialist?
  3. The left confronts modernity
  4. Robert Thomson (15 September 2011). Resolving Controversy in the European Union: Legislative Decision-Making Before and After Enlargement. Cambridge University Press. pp. 14–. ISBN 978-1-139-50517-8. Retrieved 9 August 2013.
  5. The 2011 Declaration of principles of the Party of European Socialists declares: "Freedom, equality, solidarity and justice are our fundamental values. These universal values belong together. Democracy is a prerequisite to their full expression. Combined, our values form our moral compass to build progressive societies in today’s world".
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