Anarcho-syndicalism is not an abstract theory
that was created out of thin air It is based on a
simple observation: that society is built by the
work that most of the population does, but only
a few people own the world's resources, reap
the profits and hold power
It originates from the workers' movement - from
workers realisina that thev can work toaether to
make demands of their emplovers, build power
in their workplaces and begin to take control of
their own lives.
Anarcho-syndicalism combines two ideas:
anarchism and syndicalism
Anarchism is the rejection of any domination of
one person by another. Exploitation and
oppression are widespread in our world today,
and anarchist groups want to see an end to this.
Relying on leaders only perpetuates the
disempowerment of people - this is why
anarchist groups are organised without any
hierarchies, and decisions are made by members
collectively instead of a small number of people
who claim to represent them.
Syndicalism has similar origins to the trade union
movement, but a syndicalist union is very
different from a mainstream trade union.
Syndicalist unions are not iust a way of
negotiating for slightly better treatment at work -
they are organs of radical social change. By
participating in syndicalist unions, workers can
build confidence in their collective strength, shift
the balance of power in their workplaces,
coordinate with other unions locally and around
the world
and, when the time comes, will be
able to replace capitalism and the state
Anarcho-syndicalist activity has ebbed and
flowed during its long history, but it is needed
now more than ever
Living and working conditions are getting worse
all over the world. Political leaders are failing to
deliver any solutions - in fact, they are increasing
their control in an attempt to preserve the
current system.
We can't wait for other people to solve our
problems for us - we need to organise ourselves
and do something about it.
What is anarcho-syndicalism anyway?