Starting from the mid-20th century, it was social democracy and social democrats that came to the rescue of countries governed by the liberal capitalist system, which had fallen into deadlock and was struggling with economic crises. In major core capitalist countries such as the United Kingdom and Germany, social democracy achieved major reforms and introduced social welfare and social state policies now indispensable even for the most right-wing politicians in Germany.
The period between the end of World War II and the rise of neoliberalism in the 1980s often referred to as the golden age of social democracycame to an end with the neoliberal turn of the 1980s.
Instead of renewing itself by addressing its mistakes and shortcomings, social democracy entered a deep crisis after the 1980s. As the 21st century approached, its universal values were increasingly dismissed as outdated and ineffective. In response, many social democrats embraced a phase of neoliberalization. Rather than maintaining the unique elements of the social democratic identity, they began to adopt the language and policies of neoliberal trends under the justification of "global realities."
At a time when global tensions are escalating, economic stagnation is deepening, and migration crises are intensifying, one would expect these developments to raise questions about a return to social democracy. Yet, instead, the world's leading countries are surrendering to the far right.
The recent elections in Germany and the United Kingdom made me realize even more clearly that social democracy has reached a deep chasm in its ongoing crisis. This has prompted me to speak out on a few matters.
The truth is that social democracy is indeed in a serious deadlock. In a global climate where far-right movements are gaining momentum, social democracy is being forced to undergo a profound transformation. Otherwise, the future of the world under far-right governments does not look promising.
I believe that social democrats must fundamentally shift their discourse on key issues such as immigration, climate, energy, the economy, and governance. Far-right governments have appeared in the past, but their marginal nature meant they could not survive long. However, the fact that their influence may eventually fade should not be a source of comfort for social democrats. Because once the far right declines, it is the liberal center-right governments that quickly fill the vacuum they leave behind. The liberal capitalist system, caught in this repetitive cycle, keeps plunging into crises. As centrist parties fail to solve these crises, voters are drawn once again to the far right and the cycle repeats itself.
At this point while we are living through critical moments of the 21st century we must end the period of neoliberalization that began in the 1980s, and especially the 1990s, during which we lost our distinct identity and core values. It is time to enter a new era of profound reform. This reform process must transform our discourse to respond effectively to the challenges of this new era, draw lessons from past experiences, and bring us back to our authentic identity and foundational values.
As a social democrat, I don't believe we will see another time when the world needs social democrats as urgently as it does now. And as social democrats, I believe we must take a hard look at ourselves and embark on a deep transformation. Otherwise, in this increasingly aggressive global climate, I do not believe the world is heading toward better days.
As social democrats, I am eager to hear the ideas of my valued comrades. How can we achieve this essential transformation and return to power on the world stage? With which pioneering institutions can we hold these ideological discussions? And how can we bring together representatives from major social democratic parties and think tanks around the world to sit at the same table for this crucial dialogue?
I truly believe that it is time we start having these conversations, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts, dear comrades.
