Archived Articles on General Analysis NGOs and Social & Economic Justice

Key Documents | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 - 1995 | Back to Current Articles

Key Documents

Democracy at the Barricades (August 2001)

Ironically, governments of the industrialized world claim that NGOs are undemocratic because they are not elected. They have thereby tried to divert attention from the legitimate questions protesters raise. But in fact the democratic deficit lies with international capital, not with NGOs in the globalization-reform movement. (Le Monde Diplomatique)

Violence Should be Seen as a Sign of a Healthy Democracy (July 13, 2001)

Politicians often refer to violence in order to condemn their critics, without reflecting on the reasons that trigger violent action. Martin Woollacott demands that governments and citizens should not "condone violence, but only see it as something which can never be entirely eradicated and which, meanwhile, has forms and rules and can be well- or ill-managed." (Guardian)

NGOs: Fifty Years of Advocating Human Rights (October 1998)

In this article, the author examines the significant role played by nongovernmental organizations in the growth of the international human rights movement over the past 50 years. (Issues of Democracy)

2004

Wangari Maathai: Nobel Lecture (December 10, 2004)

Nobel Peace Laureate Wangari Maathai argues that NGOs lead change in societies that face poverty and political corruption by mobilizing a critical mass of citizens to build social justice. Maathai describes how the Green Belt Movement in Kenya taught rural communities how to drive development rather than rely on "outside" solutions to their problems. Under President Daniel arap Moi's corrupt rule, Green Belt participants built community relationships and aided peaceful transition to democracy in Kenya. (Nobelprize.org)

Where Have All the Protesters Gone? (October 4, 2004)

YaleGlobal argues that the lack of protesters during the 2004 World Bank and International Monetary Fund meetings does not mean the incorrectly labeled "anti-globalization movement" has deteriorated. On the contrary, the global justice and peace movements have merged and supporters have subsequently shifted attitudes on effective tactics.

A Milestone in the Global Struggle Against Injustice and War (September 17, 2004)

In a speech to the Beirut International Assembly of Anti-War and Anti-Globalization Movements, Walden Bello says the "perpetual peace" that globalization supporters once envisioned does not reflect the world today. Instead, he says, global peace depends on the world freeing itself from the grasp of imperially-inclined states, removing corporate self-interest from the economy, and including Arab contingents in the global justice movement. (Transnational Institute)

We the Peoples 2004 – A Call to Action for the UN Millennium Declaration (September 8, 2004)

This joint North-South Institute and World Federation of United Nations Associations report draws upon "civil society" responses from the 2004 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) survey. The respondersâ€”most of which already actively advocate the goalsâ€”believe MDGs offer promise without change. In a post-9/11 world focused more on security than development, the report says civil society must step up action by campaigning, monitoring progress and interacting with different constituencies.

Louder than Words (August 5, 2004)

Mark Curtis, head of the World Development Movement, argues that it is time for the global justice movement to move away from "traditional campaigning" and instead engage in "peaceful direct action." He asserts that many NGOs spend too much time on government lobbying "and not enough telling their supporters that government is part of the problem." (Guardian)

Barricades and Boardrooms: A Contemporary History of the Corporate Accountability Movement (June 7, 2004)

Arguing that corporate power undermines world development, this paper examines the emergence of a corporate accountability movement and analyzes its effectiveness over the last decade. The paper also identifies challenges facing the movement such as the weak relationship between Northern and Southern groups. (United Nations Research Institute for Social Development)

Abortion Activists on the March (April 26, 2004)

Hundreds of thousands of US and foreign activists rallied in Washington, forming the biggest abortion rights demonstration in 12 years. Foreign activists came to highlight the impact of US policies, such as the "global gag rule," on women in poor countries. The global gag rule prohibits non-governmental groups that perform abortions or offer counseling on abortion from receiving US government funding. (BBC)

At IMF Meeting, Optimism Inside, Outrage Outside (April 25, 2004)

NGOs organized large demonstrations in Washington at the IMF and World Bank's 60th anniversary in April. The protesters demanded that the Bretton Woods Institutions cancel the debts of poor countries, end their support of environmentally-damaging projects, and conduct open meetings. (LA Times)

NGOs Call to End EU-US Carve-Up of the IMF and World Bank (March 26, 2004)

NGOs are calling on the IMF and World Bank to end the tradition of appointing Europeans and US citizens to the Institution's top posts, while excluding candidates from poor countries. NGOs argue that the process is not in line with the Institution's recommendations to its borrowers of transparency and good governance. (Jubilee Debt Campaign)

Activists Target IMF, World Bank on Their 60th Birthday (March 17, 2004)

The collapse of the WTO meeting in Cancun and the FTAA talks in Miami fuelled global justice activists with optimism. However, this Common Dreams article argues that the IMF and World Bank "remain tougher nuts to crack." After sixty years in existence and ten years of extensive lobbying by activist groups, little has changed in these institutions.

Nobel Laureates and Hundreds of NGOs Urge Wolfensohn to Change World Bank Practices (February 12, 2004)

In Fall 2000 World Bank President James Wolfensohn initiated a review of the Bank's role in the extractive industries, such as mining. A draft copy of the World Bank's managements report that leaked in February 2004 indicated that the Bank veered away from a commitment to adopt changes recommended by the report. Activists and over 300 international NGOs now urge Wolfensohn to accept and adopt the report's recommendations. (CEE Bankwatch Network)

NGOs File Civil Lawsuit against Government's Pro-IMF Policies (February 6, 2004)

Three NGOs filed a lawsuit against Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri, arguing that Megawati had violated a public mandate which demanded the government " to end all agreements with the IMF by the end of 2003." According to the plaintiffs, the IMF's structural adjustment programs had worsened the country's economic condition and social welfare. (Jakarta Post)

2003

"Free Trade" Takes a Dive in Miami (December 2, 2003)

Fearing that Latin American countries would demolish the US vision of creating a "Free Trade Area of the Americas," the US government agreed to a compromise allowing the parties to opt in or out of each provision of the treaty. Though claiming this as a victory for the global justice movement, 50 Years is Enough urges poor countries to resist US pressure in bilateral negotiations.

Activists Pan FTAA 'Consultations' (November 19, 2003)

US officials view the invitation for NGOs to participate in the Americas Trade and Sustainable Development Forum as ''unprecedented.'' Many NGOs see the participation proposal as a symbolic interaction, not as a serious attempt to include their voices in the decision- making process. (Inter Press Service)

God of Free Trade (November 13, 2003)

Religious groups join human rights organizations and trade unions in resisting the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA). They believe that any economy must serve humanity and respect the fundamental rights of people. As this ethical approach directs their struggle for a fairer world order, their fight becomes a fight "against the God of the Market." (TomPaine)

Citizen Groups, Governments, Seek Scaled Back FTAA at Miami Ministerial (November 2003)

Since 1990, the US has continuously pushed toward the creation of a Free Trade Area of the Americas. Both the North American FTA of 1993 and the planned Central American FTA liberalize trade between countries of vastly different levels of development. NGOs fear the FTAA will reproduce those agreements, without including measures to reduce asymmetries. (Foreign Policy in Focus)

Victory in Miami? Focusing Global Justice Efforts Beyond FTAA (November 2003)

This Foreign Policy in Focus article looks at the US administration's "economic nationalism." The article provides recommendations to the global justice movement on how to respond to the administration's approach to globalization.

Another World Is Possible (November 2003)

Supporters view World Social Forums as "assemblies of a changing society" while critics view them as a threat. This Le Monde Diplomatique article analyzes the counter-globalization movement and the effectiveness of its forums.

Protesters Defend Cause at Trade Talks (September 12, 2003)

Activists ask not to confuse isolated violence at WTO meetings with the whole anti globalization movement. Unfair media coverage and extreme security measures detracts attention from their message. (Washington Post)

Why We Protest (September 10, 2003)

Mobilization for Global Justice presented demands to the IMF and the World Bank, such as making the two institutions more transparent and canceling the debt of poor countries. The claims voice concerns of labor unions, debt campaigners, environmentalists and other members of the international justice movement.(Washington Post)

Why We Rage at the WTO (July 29, 2003)

An anti-WTO protester in Montreal says the demonstrators should focus on "the violence on the world economic system," and not commit acts of anger that undermine the message of the entire movement. (Globe and Mail /Canada)

Central American Migrants Take Action on Trade and Regional Integration (July 13, 2003)

The neo-liberal economic model of the proposed Central American Free Trade Area has already failed to create dignified economic opportunities for the majority of Central Americans, and has provoked many to emigrate North in search of employment. (America Program)

Many Movements, One Space (June 30, 2003)

The World Social Forum brings together a wide diversity of movements from across the globe that aim to provide alternatives to neo-liberalism. By following a series of common goals, participants have the potential to create social change. (OneWorld)

Long Before Seattle: Historical Antecedents to the Current Global Justice Movement and Lessons for Increasing Movement Effectiveness (June 25, 2003)

This article looks at historical examples of mass social movements, such as the international movement for workers' rights in the mid-19th century. Pointing to "continuity between past social movements and the current global justice movement," the author urges activists to learn from these historic examples. (United for a Fair Economy)

Protesters Quietly Decry 'Frankenfood' (June 24, 2003)

Protesters gather to oppose the use of genetically modified foods, as the US pressures Europe to accept bioengineered food at the international conference on farm technology in Sacramento. (Los Angeles Times)

Protesters Refuse to Be Intimidated as Biker Thugs Lead Fight Against Reform (June 17, 2003)

Iranian officials blame the US for six days of protests in Teheran, which involved a cross-section of society. Widespread frustration makes further social unrest likely. (Times Online)

The Sound of the Soul (May 2003)

North and South American elites eager to sign a free trade agreement for the region may have met their match in the mountains of Bolivia, where a growing social movement has firmly rejected neo-liberal integration. (New Internationalist)

NGOs Visualize a Just World - Without G8 (May 30, 2003)

A variety of NGOs argue that G8 lacks legitimacy to rule over the world affairs. They organized a counter-summit to the G8 meeting to provide a more efficient forum of discussion of the global issues. (Inter Press Service)

Civil Society Key to Helping Promote Development Goals, UN Official Says (May 27, 2003)

NGOs play a vital role in bridging the gap between international policy makers and local communities. Working with civil society can help people understand that in many ways "the global interest is the national interest." (UN News Center)

Stop Privatizing Water, NGOs Tell Developed Countries (May 27, 2003)

More than 100 NGOs require the members of G8 to stop pressuring the developing countries to privatize their water resources. They argue that privatizing water opens a profitable market for European corporations but harms the developing nations. (OneWorld)

Elections vs. Democracy in Argentina (May 8, 2003)

Both candidates for the 2003 Argentinean presidential elections embody the neoliberal establishment. Argentinean citizens have openly opposed this group since the 2001 mass demonstrations against the IMF, political corruption, and economic liberalization. Members of progressive social movements boycotted the elections, calling them a "farce." (Nation)

NGOs Criticize US Nuclear Weapons Policies (May 1, 2003)

US policy aims to make nuclear weapons more credible by designing more 'useable' nuclear weapons and by integrating them into a broad spectrum of military capabilities. NGOs argue that this policy threatens the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. (UN Wire)

Central American Deal a Dud, Activists Say (April 10, 2003)

NGOs argue that the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA), negotiated between the US and five Central American countries, fails to help farmers overcome poverty. The activist groups urge the six governments to modify the agreement through more inclusive negotiations with civil society and union groups. (Inter Press Service)

Rights of Protesters Violated, Says Amnesty (March 30, 2003)

Authorities in many nations respond with excessive force to peaceful anti-war demonstrations. Amnesty International has released a report detailing violations of protesters' rights in 14 countries, ranging from Yemen to the US. (Inter Press Service)

NGOs Say "No" to Investment Agreement at WTO (March 21, 2003)

Over 50 NGOs call on governments to reject a WTO investment agreement at the Cancun negotiations in September 2003. The agreement restricts government's ability to regulate the actions of foreign multinational companies, causing concern that local communities will be exploited. (Third World Network)

People Profit from Trade (March 19, 2003)

Global justice activists are beginning to highlight how global inequality, exploitation, militarism, and US economic dominance work hand in hand, melding the "anti-globalization" and anti-war movements. US President Bush hinted at those connections when he attacked critics of free trade in his nationally televised pre-war press conference. (ZNet)

World Water Forum Sets Sights on "Greater Goal" (March 17, 2003)

Delegates at the World Water Forum will not allow the Iraq crisis to sidetrack talks on diminishing water resources caused by population growth, pollution and climate change. They believe water preservation is more crucial to humankind in the 21st century than the Iraq crisis or any other political issue. (OneWorld)

Beware War, Greed and Nationalism, Warns Roy (March 12, 2003)

In an interview with South Africa's Daily News, acclaimed author Arudhati Roy explores the interconnectedness of corporate globalization, the war on terror and the rise of nationalist and religious fascism. She posits that individuals have both the opportunity and the power to oppose these powerful forces.

Administration Allows Release Of Chile Text, Ousts NGOs From TEPAC (February 7, 2003)

A US District Court ordered the Bush administration to release documents from its free trade agreement with Chile to the public, but the court exempted documents relating to environmental commitments. The administration also ousted Friends of the Earth, which helped bring the case against the US, from the Trade and Environment Policy Advisory Committee. (Inside US Trade)

Globalization and its Critics: An Examination of the "Anti-Globalization Movement" (January 2003)

This paper from the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) describes the historical processes that shaped the global justice movement and the challenges it faces in the future. It also outlines the goals and ideas driving the worldwide coalition of civil society groups in advocating a more equitable global economy and accountable global governance.

2002

Protesters to Defy Australia Ban on Anti-WTO Marches (November 13, 2002)

A ban on protests constitutes just one of many obstacles for anti-globalization activists, as the Australian government has also suspended trains to Olympic Park where the talks will be held, secured the city's perimeter with a 3 kilometer fence, and tried to shut down protest-friendly websites. (Pacific Rim Bureau)

Anti-Globalization's Appetite for Destruction Wanes (November 8, 2002)

The gathering of the European Social Forum in Florence, Italy symbolizes the regionalization of its Brazilian predecessor, the World Social Forum. Focusing on peace, democracy, freedom and social justice, the anti-globalization movement is shifting towards a less confrontational and more organizational, intellectual movement. (Guardian)

Free Trade Area of the Americas Takes Shape (November 6, 2002)

Representatives of NGOs and indigenous groups have joined forces to challenge the FTAA. The Ecuadorian Foreign Minister, Heinz Moeller, urged delegates to pay more attention to civil society's concerns, which were voiced in a number of workshops and panel discussions in Quito under the banner "Another World is Possible." (Environment News Service)

Social Movements and Economic Integration in the Americas (November 1, 2002)

This discussion paper looks at how civil society has developed new models of organizing in response to the increased influence of transnational corporations and international financial institutions in politics. It discusses civil society's response to unjust trade policies and an "inequitable development model" in the Americas. (Americas Program - Interhemispheric Resource Center)

10,000 Protest the FTAA in Quito (October 31, 2002)

Tens of thousands of Ecuadorian workers, students, indigenous peoples, and campesinos protested against the FTAA and the neo-liberal model. Although they faced repressive security forces, they succeeded in demonstrating "that the peoples of the hemisphere completely reject this proposal." (WTO Watch)

Unity Platform on Corporate Accountability (October 29, 2002)

Over 200 global justice groups issued a statement on the need for stronger corporate accountability regulations and present a 10-point platform for action. These groups believe that the corporate scandals "provide a political moment to rethink and remake the role of the corporation and of democracy. (CorpWatch)

Call for Reparations to Indebted Countries (October 19, 2002)

Civil society activists at the "Bridging Global Gaps" conference in the Czech republic demand not only debt cancellation to developing countries, but also "reparations to those victimized by neo-liberal policies." (Inter Press Service)

African NGOs Battle Over NEPAD as Forum Unfolds (October 16, 2002)

African NGOs complain that heads of state have not consulted with "ordinary Africans" in implementing NEPAD. These NGOs argue the development program is "donor-driven and not home grown." (Daily Observer)

Group Moves to Protect Farmers' Right to Seeds (October 15, 2002)

ActionAid, a British-based development organization, urges representatives attending the WTO's Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Council meeting to safeguard farmers' rights to reuse seeds. Seed corporations require that farmers planting patented varieties of grain buy new seed every year or face strict penalties. (OneWorld South Asia)

The Street Medics (October 10, 2002)

This "loosely organized band of volunteers" has helped people at protests since Seattle. Aside from aiding activists suffering from the effects of tear gas, heat exhaustion, and cuts, they also run pre-march workshops, conduct debriefings and ensure that no one is left in jail. (Nation)

Antiglobalization Doesn't Exist (October 10, 2002)

This World Bank Press Review comments on an article from French newspaper Libération. Though the World Bank has itself often used censorship, this World Bank mouthpiece insists that the rhetoric of anti-globalization protests stifles debate by ignoring the complexity of the questions involved.

Tomorrow the World? The Rocky Path of Social Movements (October 2, 2002)

The recipe for a mass protest is ambiguous, but some important ingredients include an opportunity for mobilization, resources, and networks. Whether the current movement for global change will transform into a widespread protest remains to be seen. (Open Democracy)

Naomi Klein Gets Global (September 25, 2002)

In a revealing interview, Naomi Klein asks for an end to the media-imposed label of "anti-globalization". Knowing full well that it reaches more nations than most previous grassroots movements, she outlines the current status and future of growing neo-liberal dissent. (Alternet)

Protesters Get Short Shrift in Post-9/11 America (September 19, 2002)

Can we blame the media for the lack of protests against the impending war on Iraq? This author argues that the media's failure to report fairly on protests gives the mistaken impression that protesters died out with the end of the Vietnam War. (Toronto Star)

Coffee Crisis Prompts Action from Aid Groups (September 19, 2002)

NGOs begin a global campaign to raise awareness of and present solutions for the problems coffee growers face in developing countries. Coffee prices have dropped 50% since 1999, currently at a level below that of the Great Depression. (CTV News)

The GMO Debate (September 16, 2002)

Hundreds of African NGOs support Zambia and Zimbabwe's refusal to accept genetically altered food. These countries based their rejection of GMOs on several factors, including protection of agricultural exports. (Civicus)

Global Anti-Corruption NGO Blasts Rich and Poor Alike (August 28, 2002)

"Corrupt political elites in the developing world, working hand-in-hand with greedy business people and unscrupulous investors, are putting private gain before the welfare of citizens and the economic development of their countries," says Peter Eigen, chairman of NGO Transparency International. (Inter Press Service)

Argentines Greet O'Neill With Anger (August 7, 2002)

Feeling angered and betrayed by the way the Bush Administration has handled the situation in Argentina, thousands gathered to protest the arrival of Paul O'Neill in Buenos Aires, the "epicenter of South America's burgeoning economic crisis." (Washington Post)

Protests Break Mexico Airport Plan (August 2, 2002)

After three weeks of often violent protests, the Mexican government has backed down from its plan to build a new international airport on farm land which would have displaced residents of 13 villages. (BBC)

Police, Protesters Clash in Manila As Arroyo Urges Closer U.S. Ties (July 23, 2002)

As Philippine President Arroyo pledged to work more closely with the US military, thousands of protesters battled with police calling for her resignation and an end to US military presence in the country. (Washington Post)

Oil Deal 'Off', Nigerian Women Say (July 16, 2002)

Some 150 Nigerian women have taken over a Chevron Texaco oil terminal. The protesters are demanding employment for their families and investment into their communities. The oil giant has agreed to employ youths from the community, to build a town hall, schools and power and water systems. (BBC)

1,500 Palestinians Protest Mass Unemployment, PA Corruption (July 15, 2002)

The recent blockades enforced by Israel have rendered thousands of Palestinians jobless. According to the Palestinian labor minister, 78% of Palestinians are now unemployed. (Agence France Presse)

Where Did All the Protesters Go? (July 14, 2002)

The Observer takes stock of the global justice movement in light of September 11. This article argues that though the inertia behind the movement against corporate driven globalization is not questioned, "the name" of it, the nature of its protests, and the future cohesion of the movement is unclear.

Argentines Called to 'Day of Rage' (July 9, 2002)

Thousands of protesters, angry with the "government's handling of the worst economic crisis in its history," will celebrate their Independence Day with street protests. (BBC)

US Minister Forced Off Aids Stage (July 9, 2002)

Protesters criticizing the small amount the US is spending on the fight to eradicate HIV/AIDS stormed the platform at the World AIDS Conference in Barcelona. (BBC)

It's Too Soon to Gloat (July 3, 2002)

The Guardian author seeks to discredit the global justice movement and offers the usual pallid suggestion that "anti-globalizers" should "go beyond the sterile debate about whether globalization is good or bad, and decide what kind of globalization it wants."

All We Are Saying is Give Protests a Chance (July 2, 2002)

Canada's movement against corporate globalization has until recently been divided between the anti-capitalist and the labor movements. The peaceful nature of the protests during the G8 Summit has provided a basis for movement reconvergence. This is a step towards the "mass challenge to corporate globalization" that has spread across Europe and Latin America. (Toronto Globe and Mail)

Fair Trade Rally to Lobby Westminster (June 19, 2002)

"The demonstration, organized by a new grouping of charities, aid agencies and campaign groups[â€¦] is expected to be the largest ever lobbying of Westminster on the issue of fair trade." Protestors want international trade rules "rewritten to favor the world's poorest communities." (Guardian)

Why Rich Nations Are Cozying Up to Africa (June 16, 2002)

The Toronto Star argues that the developed world's recent attention on Africa is an attempt to appease the increasingly vociferous "anti-globalization" movement. The author argues that perhaps "more dangerous [â€¦] are those who appear eager to help," such as the IMF, World Bank, and US Treasury Secretary Paul O'Neill.

NEPAD Misunderstands the Politics of International Economics (June 14, 2002)

In a harsh critique of Nepad, NGOs highlight the hypocrisy of the "superpowers" vis a vis African development: "In the real world, subsidized food products from the US and the EU have wrought havoc to agriculture in Africa and Latin America." (Africa News)

Movements of Resistance (May 29, 2002)

The author proposes a resistance strategy to corporate globalization, and the disempowerment of individuals that results from it. He examines several successful Latin American resistance movements and offers proposals to bring the strategy, based on broad participation and locally based organizing, to North America. (ZNet)

As Bush Arrives in Europe Thousands Protest (May 22, 2002)

Protestors from over 240 groups throughout Germany rallied in the streets of Berlin to protest the arrival of George Bush. Demonstrators mainly voice opposition to US foreign policy, specifically Bush's plans for Iraq and his "axis of evil" theory. (Independent)

Development: NGOs Urge Treasury Chief to Revise Africa Stance (May 17, 2002)

Advocacy groups call for a new US policy to eliminate African external debt and increase development aid. (Inter Press Service)

Global Self -Organization From Below (May 10, 2002)

"Globalization from below" provides the best opportunity to challenge the power of corporate globalization, argues ZNet. Grassroots organizations play an essential role in strengthening the global justice movement by educating, mobilizing, and energizing citizens across the world.

A Shift in Police Attitudes? (April 30, 2002)

Anti-globalization activists have developed sophisticated legal support structures to counteract attempts to criminalize dissent after September 11. Each protest produces new issues that require legal advice such as the negotiation of demonstration routes and police brutality. (ATTAC)

Public Protests Around The World (April 30, 2002)

The police and the mass media have the responsibility of upholding people's rights. Ironically, the police are increasingly used to suppress any form of dissent, and the western media ignores anti-globalization protests in developing countries while simultaneously attempting to discredit activists in the west.(Global Issues That Affect Everyone)

Anti-IMF Protests Sweep Developing World (April 23, 2002)

States of Unrest II documents the extent of civil unrest in the developing world during 2001. The report shows that anti-globalization protest is "not limited to privileged 'students and anarchists' from rich countries, as some politicians and the IMF and World Bank" have tried to claim. (World Development Movement)

World Bank to West Bank (April 9, 2002)

"Whenever [the global justice movement] appears to have assumed an identity outsiders believe they can grasp, it morphs into something else." The protesters currently in the West Bank acting as human shields show that, "For the movement which came of age in Seattle, the World Bank and the West Bank belong to the same political territory." (Guardian)

Resistance: Two Words To Remember - Empires Fall (March/April 2002)

The author argues that, despite scant media coverage, "social unrest is almost everywhere one cares to look." From Rome, to Cameroon, to Mongolia, individuals form the basis of a revitalized civil society, protesting against the effects of globalization. (Adbusters)

Monterrey Goes Global (March 26, 2002)

The Americas Program argues that NGO invites to participate in the Financing for Development Conference were simply an attempt to undermine anti-globalization protests outside the conference hall. At Monterrey "our voices [were] heard but not listened to," claims one delegate.

Where Is the International Coalition Against Poverty? (March 12, 2002)

"The Monterrey Consensus is a sham," assert European NGOs in advance of the Financing For Development Conference in Monterrey, Mexico. "Governments were able to build an international coalition against terrorism in less than a month. NGOs await the formation of an international coalition against poverty."

(Campaign to Reform the World Bank)

From Protest To Politics (March 11, 2002)

The global justice movement identifies four important areas for the future: a desire to move away from the "anti" label; the urgent need to "sink or shrink" the World Trade Organization; blocking the Free Trade Area of the Americas; and proposing a "New World Financial Architecture." (The Nation)

Getting Serious About An Anti FTAA Strategy (March 6, 2002)

The Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) has been identified as a key issue for the anti-globalization movement in the coming years. The author recommends an "inside-outside" strategy combining "grassroots mobilization with serious legislative and lobbying work" to raise public awareness and influence politicians. (ZNet)

Argentina's Rebellion in the Neighborhoods (February 28, 2002)

Argentineans, frustrated by the economic and social collapse of their country, seek to affect change from the grassroots level. The establishment of neighborhood assemblies involves many citizens who have never before considered civil society as a means of political change. (ATTAC)

Reinventing Democracy (February 19, 2002)

The major NGOs and unions decided not to protest at the World Economic Forum, leaving it to the anarchists, students and direct action people. This author argues that the successful protests, organized with "no real budget [and] no professional organizers," signify a move towards direct democracy. (In These Times)

Another World Is Possible (February 18, 2002)

Susan George of ATTAC attempts to rally the global justice movement, announcing, "September 11 is not the end of the world. History may even be handing us a radically new moment, one we did not choose but [is] ours to seize." (The Nation)

Anarchy in the USA: Militant Non-violence and the Politics of Protest (February 13, 2002)

In an interview for Guerrilla News Network, David Graeber, author of Anarchy in the USA, argues that despite the portrayal of the anarchist element in anti-globalization protests by the media as simply "violent," reality shows that non-violent militancy actually forms "the soul" of the protest movement.

The New/Old Politics of Globalization (February 2002)

Rapid progress and new technology characterized the early 20th century, a globalization of sorts; the new Millennium presents an ever more globalized world. The anti-globalization movement should learn from the experiences of the early 1900s to build a "new populism," argues the author. (Project Syndicate)

Anarchists to be Targeted as "Terrorists" Alongside Al Qaeda (February 2002)

A recent Situation and Trends report by Europol includes a new category termed "anarchist terrorism." Stemming from the Genoa protests, the author claims that "this report is aimed at criminalizing the radical left and expanding the concept of terrorism." (Statewatch)

Bringing It All Back Home (Jan/Feb, 2002)

The anti-globalization movement must go "beyond protest" and "declare what we are â€˜for' as well as what we are â€˜against.' " The New Internationalist argues that local action provides the key to the future of the global justice movement.

Riots, Protests in Argentina (January 11, 2002)

A peaceful nighttime demonstration in Argentina turned violent as protests against a government freeze on bank deposits continued. Riots brought the downfall of the last government, as Eduardo Duhalde is well aware. (Associated Press)

Olympics Officials Keep Eyes on Protesters (January 8, 2002)

For the first time in Olympic history, the games organizers will provide demonstrators with "protest zones." Salt Lake City 2002 hopes creating "safe zones" for free speech will ensure protests remain peaceful. (ABC News)

Economic Crisis Ends An Era - Argentina: IMF Show State Revolts (January 2002)

This article assesses the changing nature of popular protest during the Argentinean economic crisis. Traditionally, Argentineans protest under organized union rules, but, "this time, they came out simply as citizens." (Monde Diplomatique)

Keepers Of The Flame (January 30, 2002)

In the aftermath of September 11, the radical element of the anti-globalization movement has moved center-stage. Undaunted by the Patriot Act, anarchists pledge not to lose "sight of challenging corporate exploitation even while there's a war on." (Village Voice)

Is the Anti-Globalization Movement Irrelevant? (January 28, 2002)

With the White House focused on terrorism, the IMF trying to head off a global recession sparked by the collapse in Argentina, and the World Bank attempting to rebuild Afghanistan, who will listen to the appeals of the anti-globalization movement? (Earth Times)

Globalization and Food Policy (January 25, 2002)

Foreign Policy in Focus has organized a forum on the future of the Global Justice Movement. This first part discusses the consequences of globalization on water accessibility, genetically modified food and the genetic base of plant life.

Opportunities & Obstacles in the Global Justice Movement (January 25, 2002)

The second part of a Foreign Policy in Focus forum on the future of the Global Justice Movement provides a perspective on globalization from the South. The anti-globalization movement must move from simply debating the issues to presenting credible alternatives.

Global Justice Movement Is Not Dead (January 25, 2002)

NGOs should use a diversity of tactics to promote a wide range of issues including worker rights, the environment and development, advocates the third session of the Foreign Policy in Focus forum on the future of the Global Justice Movement.

History of the Movement (January 25, 2002)

The last part, concluding the discussions on the future of the Global Justice Movement, emphasizes that, despite 9/11, the anti-globalization movement will continue to thrive whilst issues such as poverty, debt and environmental destruction remain. (Foreign Policy in Focus)

Bucking the Corporate Future (Winter 2001/2002)

Grassroots Globalization Network "advances positive alternatives to corporate globalization" by promoting community projects such as economic cooperatives and community-supported livelihood programs. (Earth Island Journal)

2001 - 1995

Globalization: Anti-Global Protest Fights on a New Front (December 28, 2001)

In the aftermath of September 11, the anti-globalization movement has had to reassess its position. Coupled with the belief that the media now report more on protest violence than the issues at hand, moderate voices are calling for a more subtle approach.(Independent)

A Civil Society Rebuttal to the World Bank's "Response to Four Demands From the Mobilization for Global Justice" (November 2001)

Hundreds of organizations worldwide demand for greater transparency and a better acknowledgement of developing countries' concerns. Civil society reacts to the World Bank's responses. (50 Years Is Enough)

Protesters Weigh Action at G8 Summit in June as Security Concerns Loom (October 24, 2001)

Anti-globalization movements might change their way of protests during the next G8 summit so as not to be considered as terrorists. Following the September 11 attacks, several countries have passed bills restricting the freedom of speech. (Agence France Presse)

Nobel Laureate Encourages Global Justice Movement (October 15, 2001)

Joseph Stiglitz points out the unfairness of trade agreements, especially when it comes to developing countries. The Nobel Prize winner in economics asserts that the global justice movement must go on. (Inter Press Service)

What Are We For? (September 6, 2001)

Globalization has led to increased poverty, injustice, subordination, anti-solidarity and ecological disasters. New institutions are needed to replace the IMF, the World Bank, and the WTO as they serve strictly the interests of the elite. (ZNet)

Anarchism and the Anti-Globalization Movement (September, 2001)

In an effort to understand what attracts young activists to anarchism, Barbara Epstein draws on the history of social and political movements and shows how the new movement combines elements of anarchist sensibility and Marxist analysis. (Monthly Review)

Is This Any Way To Run A Globe? (August 14, 2001)

R.C. Longworth describes the opposition between the G8, who have put themselves in charge of global governance, and global protesters. The debate has reached a deadlock: "It's time to move on to a real debate, to open up some more chairs at the rule-writing table, and to define some intellectual battle lines." (St. Paul Pioneer Press)

Democracy at the Barricades (August 2001)

Debt Relief So Far "A Cruel Joke:" One Year on From Jubilee 2000, Debt Promises Remain Unmet (December 19, 2001)

The year 2000 may be a distant memory, but the calls for debt relief from the Jubilee 2000 group are stronger than ever. A new campaign for 2002 highlights the fact that only 15% of the unpayable debt of the world's poor has been cancelled. (Jubilee Debt Campaign)

How Can Southern NGOs Have More of An Influence On The Development Agenda? (November, 2000)

In the development field, "partnership" between Northern and Southern NGOs has often been put forward as a model to achieve participatory development. However, there is still a long way toward a real partnership and equal participation in decision-making process. (University of Durham)

NGOs Call on the UN to Withdraw Endorsement of "A Better World for All" (June 2000)

This joint statement from a caucus of NGOs criticizes the "Better World" report, as being presented as a new consensus between the United Nations, the OECD, the IMF and the World Bank. By doing so it has "reinforced the perspectives from the North and disempowered the South. It undermined the very concept of political inclusiveness that defines the UN."

Key Documents

2004

2003

2002

2001 - 1995

Areas of Work

Special Topics

Archived Sections

More from GPF