Caribbean Political Complexity
International and Caribbean Political Ideological Divides and Affiliations
A basic categorization of socialist and capitalist using centre-left and centre-right ideologies, lays a foundation for the understanding of comparisons to be made in this article.
Socialist (Centre-Left):
Description: Socialism generally advocates for collective or government ownership and control of the means of production and distribution of goods and services.
Center-Left Position: A centre-left socialist might support a mixed economy where there is a balance between private enterprise and government intervention. They may emphasise social welfare programs, workers’ rights, and progressive taxation.
Capitalist (Center-Right):
Description: Capitalism supports private ownership of the means of production and encourages free-market competition. It is driven by the pursuit of profit and operates with minimal government interference in the economy.
Centre-Right Position: A centre-right capitalist might advocate for a market-oriented economy with limited government intervention. They may support policies that encourage business growth, reduce regulation, and prioritise individual economic freedom.
It’s important to note that these are broad generalisations, and there can be variations within each ideology. Additionally, political ideologies and economic systems are complex and can encompass a wide range of beliefs and policies. Individuals and political parties may adopt different positions based on specific issues and contexts.
Introduction:
In the dynamic landscape of international politics, this story begins with two powerful entities. They shape the global discourse and influence the direction of nations — the Progressive Alliance a left-wing or Socialist oraganization and the International Democratic Union a right-wing or Capitalist organization. Born out of diverse political ideologies and strategic alliances, they stand as prominent forces with distinct goals and structures. Let’s delve into the fascinating stories behind their formation, their purposes, structures, and the intriguing world of political funding.
Formation of the Progressive Alliance (Socialist):
The Progressive Alliance (PA), a coalition of progressive, social democratic, and socialist political parties from around the globe, was officially formed on May 22, 2013 as an alternative to the Socialist International — a worldwide organisation of social democratic, socialist and labour parties. The historic gathering took place in Leipzig, Germany, where representatives from various political movements converged to address the shared challenges of the 21st century.
The driving force behind the Progressive Alliance’s formation was the recognition of the need for a united front to tackle global issues such as economic inequality, climate change, and social justice. Member parties pledged to collaborate on a range of policy initiatives, fostering a sense of solidarity and cooperation among like-minded political entities. The PA claims 140 participants from around the world.
Purpose and Structure of the Progressive Alliance:
The primary purpose of the Progressive Alliance is to promote social democracy, advocate for human rights, and address issues of economic and social inequality on a global scale. The organisation operates as a platform for dialogue and coordination among its member parties, enabling them to exchange ideas and strategies for effective governance.
The structure of the Progressive Alliance is decentralised, with a General Secretary overseeing day-to-day operations. Decision-making is typically achieved through consensus, reflecting the diverse range of political traditions within the alliance. Regular conferences and forums serve as venues for members to discuss and formulate joint policies.
The current General Secretary of the Progressive Alliance is Luc Triangle. He was elected to the position on November 23, 2023, at the 6th Extraordinary World Congress of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) in Berlin, Germany.
Triangle is a Belgian trade unionist with extensive experience in the international labour movement. He has served as the General Secretary of the Public Services International (PSI) since 2017. Prior to that, he was the Regional Secretary for Europe and Asia for the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). Triangle is a strong advocate for workers’ rights and social justice and has a commitment to build a more just and equitable world for all.
Funding for the Progressive Alliance:
Funding primarily comes from member parties, who contribute based on their respective capabilities. Additionally, the organisation seeks financial support from foundations and donors who share their commitment to progressive values and global cooperation.
Foundations and donors that have donated to the Progressive Alliance (PA):
The Progressive Alliance does not publicly disclose its donors, but several sources have reported on some of the major foundations and individuals who have supported the alliance or its member parties. These include:
The Ford Foundation: A private foundation that supports a wide range of progressive causes, including human rights, social justice, and environmental protection.
The Open Society Foundations: A private foundation founded by George Soros that supports a wide range of progressive causes, including democracy, human rights, and education.
The Heinrich Böll Foundation: A German foundation that supports progressive causes, including environmental protection, human rights, and democracy. It is affiliated with Alliance 90/The Greens.
The Friedrich Ebert Foundation: A German foundation that supports social democratic causes, including labour rights, social justice, and democracy. It is affiliated with the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD).
Fondation Jean-Jaurès: The Fondation Jean-Jaurès is a French think tank that is affiliated with the Socialist Party (PS). It has donated to the PA in the past, but the specific amount is not publicly available.
Democracy Alliance: A secretive network of progressive mega donors who coordinate their political donations to groups that the Alliance has endorsed. Democracy Alliance members have been reported to distribute millions to liberal organisations. Prominent members of the group include billionaires George Soros and Tom Steyer.
Formation of the International Democratic Union (Capitalist):
In contrast, the International Democratic Union (IDU) traces its origins back to 1983 and has 84 full and associate members from 65 countries. The IDU was officially founded in London, bringing together centre-right political parties with a commitment to democratic principles and free-market policies. The founding members, including the likes of Margaret Thatcher and George H.W. Bush, aimed to create a global alliance that would champion conservative values in the face of shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Purpose and Structure of the International Democratic Union:
The IDU is driven by a commitment to democracy, individual freedom, and free-market principles. Member parties collaborate to promote these values and address challenges such as economic development, security, and good governance.
The structure is organised around a rotating chairmanship, ensuring that leadership is shared among member parties. Decision-making occurs through consensus, with regular meetings and conferences serving as platforms for policy discussions. The organisation maintains a Secretariat to coordinate its activities and facilitate communication among member parties.
The current chairman of the International Democratic Union (IDU) is Stephen Harper. He is a Canadian politician who served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Canada from 2006 to 2015. Harper was the leader of the Conservative Party of Canada from 2004 to 2015.
After working in the oil and gas industry, Harper entered politics in 1988, working as an advisor to Prime Minister Brian Mulroney. He served as Minister of Industry from 2002 to 2003 and Minister of Finance from 2003 to 2006.
As Prime Minister, Harper led the Conservative Party to three consecutive majority governments. He implemented a number of economic and social policies, including tax cuts, deregulation, and increased spending on defence and security.
Funding for the International Democratic Union:
It primarily comes from contributions by member parties. Corporate donations and support from individuals who align with the IDU’s principles also play a role in sustaining the organisation’s operations.
Foundations and donors that have donated to the International Democratic Union (IDU):
The IDU also does not publicly disclose its donors, but some information is available from financial reports and other sources. These include:
The Kochs: Charles and David Koch are American billionaires who have donated billions of dollars to conservative causes, including the IDU.
The Mercer Family Foundation: A foundation established by hedge fund manager Robert Mercer that supports conservative causes, including the IDU.
The Bradley Foundation: A foundation that supports conservative causes, including the IDU.
The Scaife Foundations: A network of foundations that support conservative causes, including the IDU.
Atlas Network: The Atlas Network is a libertarian think tank that is based in the United States. It has donated to the IDU in the past, but the specific amount is not publicly available.
Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS): The KAS is a German non-profit foundation that is affiliated with the Christian Democratic Union of Germany (CDU). It has donated to the IDU in the past, but the specific amount is not publicly available.
American Enterprise Institute (AEI): The AEI is an American think tank that promotes conservative and libertarian ideas. It has donated to the IDU in the past, but the specific amount is not publicly available.
Ties to the Caribbean
In Caribbean politics, the alignment of political parties often transcends national boundaries, reaching into the international arena where affiliations and alliances play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s governance. The ideological divide between centre-right and centre-left parties is not just a domestic matter but also reflects a broader global context that influences policy decisions, governance styles, and international relationships.
Centre-Right Parties International Affiliations and Alliances
Centre-right parties often maintain affiliations with the International Democrat Union (IDU) via the Caribbean Democrat Union.
Several centre-right political parties in the Caribbean region adhere to common principles of free-market ideals, limited government intervention, and conservative economic policies propagated by the International Democratic Union (IDU).
In Antigua and Barbuda, the United Progressive Party (UPP) aligns itself with these principles and may have an affiliation with the IDU. Similarly, the Free National Movement (FNM) in The Bahamas, the United Democratic Party (UDP) in Belize, the United Workers’ Party (UWP) in Dominica and Saint Lucia, the New National Party (NNP) in Grenada, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in Guyana, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in Jamaica( the only centre-right party in this group currently ruling), the People’s Action Movement (PAM) in Saint Kitts and Nevis, the United Democratic Party (UDP) in Belize and the New Democratic Party (NDP) in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines all advocate for limited government intervention, economic liberalisation, and market-oriented approaches. Many of these parties also demonstrate a potential alignment with the IDU through their ideals, emphasising their commitment to conservative values and economic growth through private sector development.
Center-Left Parties International Affiliations and Alliances
The Caribbean political landscape also reflects a prevalence of centre-left parties which are directly or indirectly affiliated with the shared principles of the Progressive Alliance (PA), emphasising social democracy, progressive taxation, strong social safety and government intervention.
In Antigua and Barbuda, the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) is aligned with centre-left principles. The Bahamas is represented by the ruling Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), while Barbados has both the centre-left Barbados Labour Party (BLP) — currently ruling — and the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) in opposition. Dominica has the ruling Dominica Labour Party (DLP), Saint Lucia follows the ruling Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) a member of the PA, Grenada is currently governed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) a sister party to SLP, and Guyana is led by the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Jamaica’s centre-left politics is embodied by the People’s National Party (PNP), while Saint Kitts and Nevis is under the ruling Saint Kitts and Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP). Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is currently governed by Unity Labour Party (ULP) and Suriname has the ruling Progressive Reform Party (PRP), that straddles the centre to centre-left . Trinidad and Tobago exhibits a mix with the United National Congress (UNC) and the People’s National Movement (PNM) who remains in power, with the latter positioning itself within the broader spectrum of centre to centre-left politics, emphasising individual liberties, democratic governance, and social justice, while seeking a balance between free-market principles and social welfare for inclusive growth. The Belize ruling party, People’s United Party (PUP) can also be positioned in the centre to centre-left political spectrum.
The USA Democratic and Republican Affiliations:
The Democratic Party of the United States is a member of the Progressive Alliance (PA). The Democratic Party’s membership in the PA is consistent with its own progressive platform. The party’s platform supports a number of progressive policies, such as universal healthcare, paid family leave, and action on climate change.
The Republican Party of the United States is a member of the International Democratic Union (IDU). The Republican Party’s membership in the IDU is consistent with its own centre-right platform. The party’s platform supports a number of centre-right policies, such as tax cuts, deregulation, and a strong national defence.
These party affiliations add another layer to Caribbean political dynamics. Various Caribbean political parties have ties with these U.S. parties, for example, the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) in Barbados has historical ties with the Democrats, while the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in Jamaica often shares ideological similarities with the Republicans.
Disunity in Regional Organizations
While these political affiliations and ideological divides shape domestic policy decisions, they also impact regional cooperation and unity in organisations such as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The historical echoes of colonialism, combined with the influence of international affiliations, create challenges for these regional entities to function as cohesive units.
CARICOM, established in 1973, aims to promote economic integration, cooperation, and unity among Caribbean nations. However, the ideological differences among member states often hinder the organisation’s ability to pursue shared goals. For example, the contrasting economic policies advocated by centre-right and centre-left governments may lead to disagreements on issues such as trade agreements, economic development strategies, and regional integration.
The influence of external political affiliations further complicates matters. The alignment of some member states with centre-right organisations like the IDU and others with centre-left organisations like the PA introduces additional layers of divergence in policy objectives.
Role of International Funding
The role of international funding in Caribbean politics cannot be understated. Financial support from international organisations, governments, and non-governmental entities can significantly influence the policy priorities of political parties. While this funding is often aimed at supporting development initiatives, it can inadvertently contribute to the divergence of ideologies within and among countries.
Case Study: IMF and World Bank Influence
Countries aligned with centre-right ideologies, such as those affiliated with the IDU, may be more inclined to seek financial assistance from institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. These institutions often prescribe economic reforms and austerity measures that align with centre-right principles, emphasising fiscal discipline, market-oriented policies, and limited government intervention.
Conversely, centre-left governments, aligned with organisations like the PA, may seek funding from sources that prioritise social welfare, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. The influence of these funding sources may lead to policies that emphasise income redistribution, social safety nets, and public sector investment.
Examples: Policy Implementation and Results
Centre-Right Policies and Results:
Countries with centre-right governments, such as those aligned with the IDU, often implement policies focused on economic liberalisation, fiscal discipline, and private sector development. For instance, the Free National Movement (FNM) in The Bahamas and the New National Party (NNP) in Grenada have pursued economic reforms that prioritise attracting foreign investment and fostering business-friendly environments. The result is often reflected in indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, employment rates, and private sector expansion.
Center-Left Policies and Results:
In contrast, countries with centre-left governments, associated with the PA, may implement policies that prioritise social welfare, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. For example, the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) in Barbados and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Grenada have historically emphasised social democracy and progressive taxation. The outcomes may include improved social indicators, reduced income inequality, and enhanced social safety nets.
The Legacy of the Westminster System
The influence of the colonial Westminster system, passed down by former colonial masters, remains embedded in the political structures of many Caribbean countries. This system, featuring a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy, continues to shape governance styles and political institutions.
Case Study: Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago, with a political system rooted in the Westminster model, has experienced the influence of this colonial legacy. The country’s parliamentary democracy, characterised by a bicameral legislature and a constitutional monarchy, reflects the enduring impact of British colonial rule. While the political landscape has evolved, the Westminster system continues to influence governance and political traditions throughout the Caribbean.
Unravelling the Threads of Center-Left Ascendance and Global Agendas
A subtle but profound shift towards centre-left governance is taking root, as in almost all the above mentioned countries — except Jamaica- the trend of centre-left ruling parties emerges. The reasons behind this transformation are as diverse as the archipelago itself, influenced by intricate international alliances and, notably, the threads of funding from Western organisations championing inclusivity policies. As centre-left parties rise to prominence, the intricacies of the recent Samoa Agreement and other international compacts weave into the fabric of Caribbean politics, adding a layer of complexity to the regional tapestry.
The Samoa Agreement
On the 15th of November 2023, the Samoa Agreement marked a watershed moment in the Caribbean’s relationship with the European Union (EU) and the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) — countries previously colonised by the EU countries.
The Samoa Agreement was negotiated by representatives from the EU and the OACPS. The key negotiators for the EU were Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development Neven Mimica and European External Action Service Secretary-General Stefano Sannino. The key negotiators for the OACPS were former Deputy Secretary-General of the OACPS Adam Ruangwe from Tanzania and former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Rwanda Louise Mushikiwabo.
Beyond its purported aims of tackling global challenges, the agreement carries an implicit agenda that resonates with centre-left principles. Emphasising as stated in its very first objective — promote, protect and fulfil human rights, democratic principles, the rule of law and good governance, paying particular attention to gender equality. This objective, together with one of its principles which states, the parties shall systematically promote a gender perspective and ensure that gender equality is mainstreamed across all policies, aligns with the ethos of the burgeoning centre-left governments in the region. Article 10 of the agreement, titled Gender Equality, goes as far as to mandate constitutional and legislative change by saying, “The Parties reaffirm their strong commitment to achieving gender equality, the full enjoyment of all human rights by all, as well as everyone’s empowerment as a driver for sustainable development. They shall embody the principle of gender equality in their national constitutions or other appropriate legislation.”
This agreement is not an isolated incident. Similar compacts and alliances echo throughout the Caribbean, subtly nudging political landscapes toward inclusivity policies. The influence of Western international organisations, wielding financial support as a catalyst for progressive change, manifests in the policies of Caribbean centre-left countries that emphasises the PA’s primary purpose stated earlier, to promote social democracy, advocate for human rights, and address issues of economic and social inequality on a global scale — a stance that echoes the Samoa Agreement’s principles.
Strings Attached: International Funding and Policy Priorities
In this intricate geopolitical dance, international funding emerges as a puppeteer pulling the strings of policy priorities. The dichotomy is evident in the seeking of funds from institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. Centre-right governments, in alignment with the IDU, often gravitate towards economic reforms and austerity measures, emphasising fiscal discipline and market-oriented policies. Conversely, centre-left governments, linked to the PA, seek funding that prioritises social welfare, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.
These strings pull at the fabric of Caribbean governance. As countries navigate the delicate balance between economic stability and adherence to their ideological principles, the struggle to maintain unity within regional organisations becomes more pronounced.
Weaving the Future: Challenges and Opportunities
As the Caribbean navigates this evolving political landscape, the challenges of finding common ground amid ideological diversity loom large. The legacy of colonialism, the influence of global affiliations, and the role of international funding collectively shape the region’s trajectory. The path forward requires deft navigation, fostering regional cooperation, and balancing the collective interests of Caribbean nations against the backdrop of a rapidly changing global political tapestry.
The Rising Tide of Inclusivity
In this era of shifting political tides, the Caribbean finds itself at the nexus of inclusivity agendas championed by Western international organisations. The Samoa Agreement shines the light on the preferred path of left-leaning parties toward a future that prioritises human rights, social democracy, and gender equality. The resonance of these principles is evident in the policies of centre-left governments, signalling a departure from traditional norms.
Case Study: People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in Guyana
Guyana’s political landscape epitomises this paradigm shift. The People’s Progressive Party (PPP), currently at the helm, aligns itself with centre-left principles, particularly through its association with the Progressive Alliance (PA). The government’s commitment to social democracy, poverty reduction, and sustainable development reflects the influence of international affiliations.
The PPP’s policies echo the inclusive spirit of the Samoa Agreement. By focusing on social welfare and sustainable development, the government strives to create a more equitable society. Initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and promoting social justice align seamlessly with the overarching goals set forth in international compacts.
Realising the Vision of Center-Left Governance
As centre-left parties chart their course, the real-world outcomes offer insights into the efficacy of their governance. Countries leading the way, such as Barbados guided by the Barbados Labour Party (BLP), are a showcase for centre-left policies in regards to social indicators, income inequality, and social safety nets. The real-world implementation if successful becomes a testament to the viability of progressive governance in the Caribbean context.
Future Trajectories: Navigating the Unknown
As the Caribbean stands at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, the path forward is uncertain. The legacy of colonial structures, the influence of global affiliations, and the impact of international funding converge to shape the complexity of governance. The challenge lies in forging a collective identity that accommodates ideological diversity and fosters regional cooperation.
Potential Pathways:
Open Dialogue: Initiating open and constructive dialogue among member states is essential. Platforms for discussing differences and finding common ground must be established to foster understanding and cooperation.
Adaptable Governance Models: Acknowledging the influence of the Westminster system and reshaping it to suit the region’s evolving needs can create governance models that resonate with the Caribbean’s unique identity.
Strategic International Engagement: While maintaining autonomy, strategic engagement with international organisations should be grounded in a clear understanding of how external affiliations can impact regional unity.
Conclusion: Navigating Choppy Waters
As the Caribbean sails through these choppy waters of political evolution, the need for adept navigation becomes paramount. The threads of international affiliations, the legacy of colonialism, and the nuances of inclusivity agendas all converge to shape the region’s destiny. In this intricate dance, the Caribbean must find its rhythm — a harmonious blend of tradition and transformation that paves the way for a united and resilient future. The challenges are formidable, but so too are the opportunities for a new era of Caribbean governance.
