Socialisme International

Socialisme International (SI) was a French revolutionary socialist organization, established in 1985. Although it was relatively small in size, the group played a significant role within the landscape of French socialism. The organization continued to operate and publish its eponymous magazine until 2009. SI is notably grounded in the tradition of the British Socialist Workers Party (SWP), although it is not formally a member of the International Socialist Tendency.

Historical Background

The origins of Socialisme International can be traced back to a period of significant leftist political activity in France in the late 20th century. In 2000, the group entered into the Revolutionary Communist League (LCR), a Trotskyist political party. During this period, SI sought to extend its influence by aligning with other radical socialist movements.

The group was organized by individuals who sought to promote a revolutionary socialist agenda, initially inspired by the philosophies of the British SWP. Following their entry into the LCR, some members of SI embraced the positions of the International Socialists, which further guided their activities.

Political Activities

Socialisme International was actively involved in various social and political movements, most notably opposing the controversial bans on wearing Muslim headscarves in schools. This opposition was part of a larger alliance involving both Muslim and left-wing organizations and individuals. The group also advocated for a united radical left candidate during the 2007 French presidential elections.

In the 1990s, Tony Cliff, a leading theoretician of the British SWP, encouraged SI to follow the example of Linksruck, a successful socialist group that grew by engaging with the youth section of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). This strategy included attempts to align with the French Socialist Party to increase their influence.

Related Concepts

• Socialisme ou Barbarie: Another French radical libertarian socialist group active in the post-World War II period, founded by Cornelius Castoriadis.
• Lutte Ouvrière: A Trotskyist communist party in France with historic connections to Socialisme International.
• Guy Debord: An influential member of the Situationist International, also briefly associated with Socialisme ou Barbarie.

The involvement of Socialisme International in these broader socialist movements illustrates the interconnected nature of socialist organizations and their efforts to influence political discourse and policy in France and beyond.