Stop the War Coalition

Stop the War Coalition. The Stop the War Coalition is a British political activist group established in the immediate aftermath of the September 11 attacks to oppose the impending military response. It quickly became the principal national organization coordinating mass opposition to the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021) and, most prominently, the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The coalition brings together a diverse array of trade unions, political parties, and community groups under a platform of anti-war and anti-imperialist activism, organizing some of the largest demonstrations in British history.

History and formation

The organization was founded at a public meeting in London on 21 September 2001, convened by veteran left-wing figures including the late Labour Party parliamentarian Tony Benn and journalist John Pilger. Key founding organizations included the Socialist Workers Party, the Communist Party of Britain, and the Muslim Association of Britain. Its formation was a direct response to the foreign policy of Prime Minister Tony Blair and his alignment with U.S. President George W. Bush in declaring a "War on terror". The coalition's early focus was mobilizing against the bombing of Afghanistan, arguing it would cause a humanitarian catastrophe and increase global instability.

Political positions and campaigns

The coalition's core political stance is opposition to what it terms "imperialist wars" and foreign military interventions led by Western powers, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom. Its central campaigns have been against the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021), the 2003 invasion of Iraq, and later interventions in Libya and Syria. It advocates for the closure of British military bases such as RAF Menwith Hill and campaigns against the Trident nuclear programme. The group also frequently criticizes NATO expansion and Western support for governments like that of Israel, particularly during conflicts such as the Gaza wars and the 2023 Israel–Hamas war.

Organization and structure

The coalition operates as a broad umbrella organization, with a national steering committee that includes representatives from affiliated groups. Key long-term officers have included convenor Lindsey German and chair Andrew Murray, who has also served as an adviser to Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn. It is funded primarily through donations, membership fees from affiliated organizations, and collections at its events. Affiliates include major trade unions like the RMT and the Fire Brigades Union, as well as constituency Labour Party branches, student unions, and various peace groups.

Criticism and controversies

The coalition has faced sustained criticism from across the political spectrum. Figures like former Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Labour MP Yvette Cooper have accused it of anti-American sentiment and of failing to adequately condemn authoritarian regimes. It has been embroiled in controversies over allegations of antisemitism within the wider left-wing movement, with critics pointing to its platforming of individuals accused of Holocaust denial and its statements on Israel. Some critics, including writer Nick Cohen, argue the coalition exhibits a tendency toward apologism for adversaries of the West, such as President Vladimir Putin's Russia and the Assad government in Syria.

Notable activities and protests

The coalition is most famous for organizing the 15 February 2003 demonstration in London, which drew between one and two million participants and was part of a global day of action against the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Other major mobilizations include protests at Heathrow Airport against the use of rendition flights, a large demonstration during the 2005 general election, and constant vigils outside the Prime Minister's residence at 10 Downing Street. It organized significant protests against the 2011 military intervention in Libya and the 2018 bombing of Damascus and Homs. More recently, it has held rallies opposing Western military support for Ukraine following the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Category:Anti-war organizations in the United Kingdom Category:Organizations established in 2001 Category:Political advocacy groups in the United Kingdom