Picture Credit: Deutsche Presse Agentu |
Massive citizen protests and alternative summits accompany most gatherings of the G-8, the World Trade Organization, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. Universities, NGOs, trade unions, faith-based and peace groups come together to oppose business-driven globalization, war and undemocratic decision making, advocating for global peace, economic and social justice.
Mass protests against the US-led war and occupation of Iraq epitomize this trend. The Global Justice Movement must build a long-term agenda against social injustice. New international institutions such as the World Social Forum are a step towards global justice and sustainability.
In recent years, protesters have turned out in force at almost every major international forum or summit, especially the G7/G8 meetings and the meetings of the World Bank, the IMF and the WTO. Civil society has mobilized large numbers to oppose business-driven globalization, war and undemocratic decision making and to press for global peace and justice.
Since September 2002, universities, trade unions, faith groups, NGOs and peace groups have mobilized against the US/UK led war and the occupation of Iraq, forming the biggest anti-war movement in history. The section follows global protests and public opinion on the war and occupation.
In opposition to the US-UK invasion of Iraq, activist groups from around the world formed the largest global peace movement in history, prompting the New York Times to dub the movement the world's "other super power." Few activists were surprised that the US ploughed ahead with invasion and occupation, but now the movement faces the challenge of redefining its goals and setting a new long-term agenda against violence and imperialism. This section looks at "what's next" for the global peace movement.
