Movement of Democratic Socialists

Movement of Democratic Socialists
Name	Movement of Democratic Socialists
Colorcode	#FF0000
Foundation	1991
Ideology	Democratic socialism, Social democracy, Progressivism
Position	Left-wing
Country	France

Movement of Democratic Socialists. The Movement of Democratic Socialists is a political organization in France that emerged in the early 1990s from a faction within the French Socialist Party. It advocates for a synthesis of traditional social democracy and more radical democratic socialism, positioning itself on the left-wing of the French political spectrum. The movement has participated in various electoral alliances and has been influential in local politics, particularly in certain regions of Occitania.

History

The Movement of Democratic Socialists was founded in 1991 by dissidents from the French Socialist Party who were critical of the party's direction under leaders like François Mitterrand and later Lionel Jospin. Its formation coincided with a period of ideological realignment following the fall of the Berlin Wall and the decline of Eurocommunism. Throughout the 1990s, the group maintained a critical stance towards the Maastricht Treaty and the policies of the European Union, aligning more closely with the positions of figures like Jean-Pierre Chevènement. It experienced a minor resurgence during the 2012 French presidential election, offering critical support to the candidacy of François Hollande while advocating for more robust economic interventionism.

Ideology and principles

Ideologically, the Movement of Democratic Socialists is rooted in a commitment to democratic socialism, rejecting both the Third Way politics associated with Tony Blair and the legacy of Marxism-Leninism. Its principles emphasize economic democracy, the expansion of the public sector, and strong welfare state protections, drawing intellectual inspiration from thinkers like Pierre Bourdieu and historical figures such as Léon Blum. The movement is also characterized by its Euroscepticism, advocating for a "social Europe" and opposing what it views as the neoliberal framework of the European Central Bank. It supports ecological modernization and aligns with the broader goals of the alter-globalization movement.

Organizational structure

The Movement of Democratic Socialists operates as a decentralized political association rather than a hierarchical party, with its highest authority being a biennial National Congress. Day-to-day operations are managed by a National Bureau elected by the congress, while regional coordination is handled by Departmental Committees in areas like Haute-Garonne and Hérault. The organization maintains a youth wing, the Young Democratic Socialists, and publishes a theoretical journal titled *Socialist Perspectives*. Its funding primarily comes from membership dues and donations, adhering to the regulations set by the French National Commission for Campaign Accounts and Political Financing.

Political activities and electoral performance

The movement's primary political activity has been participating in electoral alliances, notably with the French Socialist Party during legislative elections for the National Assembly and with The Greens in municipal contests. Its candidates have secured seats on several Regional Councils, particularly in Occitania, and in the municipal council of Toulouse. It has never contested a French presidential election independently but has been a vocal participant in debates surrounding the French labour law reform of 2016 and the Yellow vests protests.

Relationship with other political groups

The Movement of Democratic Socialists maintains a complex, often contentious relationship with the French Socialist Party, frequently criticizing its centrist shifts while remaining a periodic coalition partner. It has found common cause on specific issues with La France Insoumise and the French Communist Party, particularly regarding opposition to the Treaty of Lisbon. The movement is generally hostile towards The Republicans and National Rally, viewing them as representatives of neoliberalism and right-wing populism, respectively. At the European level, it has been associated with the Party of the European Left but is not a formal member.

Notable members and leaders

Prominent figures associated with the movement include its founding president, former Interior Minister Jean-Pierre Chevènement, and intellectual Régis Debray. Other notable members have included European Parliament deputy Marie-Noëlle Lienemann and former mayor of Montpellier Georges Frêche. The current secretary-general is Benoît Hamon, who joined after his tenure in the Government of Manuel Valls. The youth wing has been led by activists like Clémentine Autain, who later joined La France Insoumise.

Category:Political parties in France Category:Democratic socialist parties in Europe Category:Political parties established in 1991