Covid-19 Will Irrevocably Reshape Our Cities. Will Public Policy Match It?
Edmund Frondigoun discusses the long-term impact of Covid-19 on cities and what policy changes will be needed to adapt to the new normal.
Edmund Frondigoun discusses the long-term impact of Covid-19 on cities and what policy changes will be needed to adapt to the new normal.
James Small-Edwards discusses how Covid-19 has exposed the deep inequalities within British society and why we must redouble our efforts in dismantling injustices.
Charlotte Tosti writes a fascinating article on the how the Mafia is exploiting the financial hardships created by the Covid-19 crisis in Italy.
Broadcaster and author, Martin Plaut writes a fascinating historical account of Keir Hardie's time in South Africa.
Laura Cunliffe-Hall, Communications Officer for the Environment Network, explores how and why our public spaces are being re-shaped in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and how this can have long-term benefits for public health and our planet.
James Potts writes a profile on the Speaker of the House, Sir Lindsay Hoyle.
James Liu discusses how Covid-19 has exposed deep-rooted social and gender inequality but could be a catalyst for a dramatic reshaping of the economic landscape.
In the final part of his two-part series, Cllr Craig Wright discusses the need for urgent policy change to significantly enhance the life chances of our care leavers and help them overcome challenges unique to them.
In the first article of a two-part series, Cllr Craig Wright discusses the statistics around what happens when children leave the care of the local authority and transition into adulthood and independence.
Grahame Anderson details the establishment of a Young Fabians North East branch. He also invites people to join the exploratory meeting at 5.30pm Wednesday, 20 May 2020 via Zoom.
Chris Smith discusses why the Labour Party should be pushing for universal basic income in the name of constructive opposition.
Matthew Oulton explores how Covid-19 has dramatically transformed the way we work. He discusses how we must reconstruct societal norms to make the workplace more inclusive and more productive.
In the final part of her three part series, Andrea Grainger discusses the economy as a marker for societal success and the importance of considering more complex indicators.
In part two of her three-part series, Andrea Grainger discusses an alternative to the traditional economic model and the benefits that this could bring.
In part one of a three-part series, Andrea Grainger discusses the link between the climate and the economy and the radical policy changes needed to save the environment.
In part two of his two-part series on the NHS, Charlie Winstanley explores policy recommendations that can transform our healthcare system to be a person-centered and digitally-enabled NHS.
In part one of a two part series, Charlie Winstanley explores why, in light of the Covid-19 crisis, our healthcare system needs to change.
Claire Thomson discusses the problems with the housing system that Covid-19 has highlighted, and what the Labour Party should do to address this.
Leon Alleyne-McLaughlin discusses the danger in historical comparisons to the war during the Covid-19 crisis.
In the final article of his series on the role of the far left within politics, broadcaster and author Martin Plaut examines the Corbyn years and the Momentum machine.
In the second of three articles on the role of the far left within politics, broadcaster and author Martin Plaut explores the rise of the Militant Tendency faction in the 1970's and 1980's.
Understanding the past is not a guide to the future, but without it, we have little option but to keep repeating mistakes. In the first of three articles on the role of the far left, broadcaster and author, Martin Plaut looks at the origins of the Labour Party.
Greg Collins writes an analysis of Ed Miliband's new role in the shadow cabinet.
Zac Weisz discusses the case for closing down zoos around across the country.
Chris Smith discusses education policy in a post Covid-19 Britain.
Matthew Howard writes about why the Labour Party must take control of the argument on economic policy moving forward.
Chris Smith writes an excellent piece on the history of factionalism within the Labour Party.
Craig Wright writes in response to a recent article by Nina Cave, where she outlined how the success of the Michaela school could be repeated if all schools were funded properly.
William Lane writes a profile on Ben Nunn, Labour's new director of communications.
Sam Eccles discusses how Covid-19 has highlighted the case for globalism and a multilateral approach moving forward.
Fergus Smith writes about the social impact of Covid-19 and the increased social unity and strengthening of community ties in the face of the pandemic.
Daniel Monaghan explores how the UK can be a world-leading nation in promoting a more inclusive, equitable and democratic economy post Covid-19.
Matthew Howard explores how the Covid-19 pandemic is forcing us to rethink our economic policies. He also discusses why a universal basic income should be the future of any welfare state.
The Devolution and Local Government Network’s Elliot Bidgood writes part one of his series on what recent government announcements have meant for councils, voluntary organisations and new ‘Mutual Aid’ groups on the frontline of the response to coronavirus
Tobi Dada writes about the lack of representation for the black community in the upper echelons of the Labour Party and the wider implications of this on the community as a whole.
@NinaCave1 writes the third part in her series on education. She discusses the Michaela Community School in Wembley and their strict behaviour policies.
In the final article of her three-part series, Olivia Bennett discusses whether the legislation passed in response to coronavirus is proportionate and just.
In the second article of her three-part series on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the criminal justice system, Oliva Bennett discusses victims of domestic abuse and the vital need for the courts to continue to function for the safety of vulnerable people.
On World Health Day, read the Young Fabian Health Network update on Covid-19 with analysis of the Government response so far.
Olivia Bennett writes a three-part series on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the criminal justice system. In her first article, she discusses prisoners' rights and the legality of immigration detention during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With Keir Starmer’s success in the leadership election, it is time to see whether his ‘unity’ credentials can be put to the test in front of the UK’s most divided electorate: Scotland.
As Labour look set to elect another male leader, Victoria Parrett is frustrated with how women have been used in this contest.
Edward Hainsworth writes an interesting piece about social egg freezing and the legislative change needed to make the procedure more accessible to women.
@claytonj944 writes about how the Covid-19 outbreak could affect Donald Trump's prospects for re-election this November.
This update was co-authored by Chris Wongsosaputro, Chief Macroeconomist of the Young Fabian Economy and Finance Network and Amarvir Singh-Bal, The Secretary of the Economy and Finance Network and lead of the Economic Update Team.
Michael Gove’s infamously said ‘Britain’s has had enough of experts’.
Oliver Harman analyses how this compares to Boris Johnson being always flagged by his Chief Scientific Officer and how strictly we are being led by science currently, a vast change from a mere three years ago. Oliver also asks why health professionals get put on a pedestal whilst economists got slammed?
The second piece of a two-part series on Covid-19.
Thatcher’s infamously said ‘there is no such thing as society’.
Oliver Harman dissects how it is tricky for the British population to act with society in mind when we’ve had 30 years of a certain ideology pushing otherwise.
Read his illuminating first piece of a two part series on Covid-19.
Amidst the coronavirus crisis, the Devolution and Local Government Network’s @ElliotBidgood analyses the government’s decision to delay local elections to 2021
Marcus Storm discusses artificial intelligence and the urgent need for Britain to develop a modernising national industrial strategy to ensure we are a global leader in the field.
Ben Szreter writes a three-part series about climate change. In his final article, Ben discusses the merits of utilising the private sector to tackle the climate emergency.
Ben Szreter writes a three-part series about climate change. Part two considers the public sector and the challenges it faces in addressing the climate emergency.
Ben Szreter writes a three-part series about climate change. Part one considers the relationship between the public and private sector and their respective roles in tackling the climate emergency.
Cecilia Eve discusses the climate emergency. She analyses on the causes of climate change and how Labour Party policy needs to reflect this.
Nina Cave writes a two-part series on education policy. In her final article, she discusses the dire need for more funding in education and calls for a more compassionate, individual approach in supporting challenging students.
Ahead of the budget announcement today Laura Hall outlines why we need real action rather than empty promises from the government to tackle flooding.
Great piece from Nina Cave on New Labour Education policy and need to keep schools accountable for their pupils to improve outcomes for those that have have gone off the rails
Written the week of Brexit Day, Aimee Hall reflects on the Young Fabians trip to the European Parliament.
Daniel Shearer discusses how technology can discriminate and calls for more policy work to be done so this can be prevented in the future.
Abdi Duale discusses why he thinks a Young Fabian should give their first preference to Lisa Nandy.
Ian Murray writes his pitch to Young Fabian members for the Deputy Leader position ahead of ballots dropping.
Angela Rayner writes her pitch to Young Fabians ahead of the Labour Party ballots.
Hal Hooberman calls on the Labour Party to do better and pick a team that can win
Jack gives an analysis of the last General Election, with a look back through the Labour Party's recent history.
Luisa Attfield writes about the need for the new Leader and Deputy Leader to change the party's culture, introduce a proper complaints process and bring about a process of healing the divides.
Deputy Leadership Candidate Dr Rosena Allin-Khan MP gives her pitch to the young left.
In the second article of a three-part series, Alex discusses the harmful effects of the media "blame game".
In the first article of a three-part series, Alex discusses Labour Party strategy following their election defeat.
A discussion on why Labour Party must renew their attentions on voters in the West Midlands.
Sarah Lunnon from the Political Circle of Extinction Rebellion calls for immediate action to stop climate change.
Join the Young Fabians on Sunday Jan 19th at 11am where members of the Extinction Rebellion Citizens Assembly Circle will be doing a session at Fabian HQ in Petty France and learn more about climate activism.
Daniel Esson urges young Labour Party members to step forward and have their voice heard in this leadership election, then unite for the good of the countries future.
Eli Harris, Chair of Queen Mary University Labour Society, calls on the Labour Leadership hopefuls to do more to support young activists.
Jude Wilkinson writes that the Labour Party must remake itself or follow in the footsteps of the French Socialist Party's decline.
Former police officer Milad Amini gives his take on the future of policing in the UK with a Conservative majority.
Martin Edobor, previous PPC for the Labour Party, gives his take on how the Fabian movement is where the future thinkers of the Labour movement will develop.
Cathleen reflects on the mood and feelings when the exit poll came out, and writes a rallying call for members to dust themselves off.
Capitalism has failed to ensure our actions increase the welfare of everyone in society. This needs to change.
Joe Pagani examines the similarities between the New Zealand, Australian and UK Labour parties, and what lessons we need to learn if we want to gain power.
John Morris, an experienced Labour campaigner in the Midlands, analyses the result of the General Election and suggests how to win voters back.
Adam Allnutt, new Young Fabian chair sets out the executive’s plan for the year ahead.
This front-page headline from the Times last week saw the futility of current proposals for social media regulation writ large.
Adam Allnutt discusses the urgent need for global action to avoid a climate catastrophe.
Mhairi Tordoff discusses the Young Fabian environment network launch event.
Anjali Mukhi discusses the BAME and local government network's recent event on local authorities and hate crime.
Israel’s upcoming election on April 9th has an extraordinary backdrop of controversy and uncertainty.
Fareed Alderechi discusses the need for more investment in the north and regional devolution.
By making Britain more connected, this ensures that any 'Green New Deal' works for all.
Michael Culbert discusses the need for the Labour Party to rethink its media strategy.
The Young Fabian Economy and Finance Network’s Response to the Spring Statement
The Young Fabians are observing the EU MEP elections this year. You can find our publications here.
Alongside publications, we will be producing blogs throughout the campaign. Joe Corry Roake writes on recent polling in Sweden and what this means for the upcoming elections.
Be present, go to the meeting, write the blog, volunteer for the cause you’re passionate about, change someone’s mind, organise, build, ideate, do - not - settle.
The Young Fabian International Network held a discussion with Jess Manville, who was previously an officer on the Network and is currently a Journalist for the Israeli TV station I24 News, covering her previous work at the YF, what she does now, and the current social and political climate within Israel.
Masculinity. A word who’s modern interpretation is now more of weakness than strength. And rightly so.
The Young Fabians had an Open day discussing the politics of food on Sunday 3rd February. Thank you to all who attended for the discussion. If you couldn't make it, slides from the introduction section can be found here, prepared by exec member Stella Tsantekidou.
Last week, the Young Fabians Devolution and Local Government Network held an event with John Denham to discuss English Identity. Marian Craig, Chair of the Young Fabians Devolution and Local Government Network summarises the discussions.
"If we are to leave a sustainable planet for the generations to come then changing our diet is an essential part of it."
The Young Fabians held their AGM on 24th November in Fabian HQ, Petty France. The new executive was ratified, motions were debated and new networks were approved.
The young Fabians hosted an event in November to discuss Britain's relationship with the Middle East. the International Network Secretary, Nathaneal Amos Sansam, writes up the event below.
On Saturday 10th November the Young Fabians Economy & Finance Network ran a ‘Rethinking Economics Workshop’, hosted by Nadia Islam and Mark Whittaker and with three invited speakers. This was a timely event, coming off the back of an underwhelming autumn budget at a time when, as described by the IPPR, the economy ‘is not working for millions of people and requires fundamental reform’ and with the prospect of a potentially ruinous Brexit looming on the near horizon
"The key to the Preston model is spending local authority money and ‘anchor institutions’ funds locally with local contractors and suppliers."
This article is based on the Young Fabian Economy & Finance Network’s event in Leeds Civic Hall on 25th October 2018.
The speakers were Mhairi Tordoff (social housing professional and environmental activist), Prof John Barrett (UK Energy Research Centre), Ian Rigarlsford (Ecology Building Society), and Alex Sobel MP (Environmental Audit Committee and leader of SERA’s Parliamentary Network).
The Young Fabians Devolution and Local Network recently spoke to Lisa Nandy (MP for Wigan and Centre for Towns) and Jonn Elledge (Editor of City Metric). John Morris summarises the debate.
"The anti-semitism debate is another strike on the shaky foundations that Scottish Labour needs to build for its successful revival."
"We are tired of being told ‘that’s the problem with you feminists’, ‘be quiet’ and ‘you’re being too emotional about this’."
Earlier this year, we published Ash Lawton Dharmasingham's series 'East of Suez: A British Strategy for an Asian Century.
If you want to read the whole series as a single document, click here.
"To this end, and with my Fabian cap on, it would appear Labour’s fiscal credibility rule is nothing more than a timid mainstream step in the right direction, gradual it may be, progressive and radical - it certainly is not."
"The civil rights marches of the 60s and 70s called for British Rights for British Citizens. It is inexcusable that after decades of struggle, peace talks and progress, the UK government continues to shirk its responsibility of offering protection to all people in the UK"
Personally through my own experiences of the NHS, I have seen how empathetic, patient and hardworking most of the medical professional staff are; but I have also experienced unsympathetic, tired, stressed NHS staff who many are unable to deliver the nurturing services we have all expected for years
Learning should be life-long and through this collaborative, progressive approach of multi-industry placements, this can remain so.
Young Fabian writes up the Book Club event discussing Dismembered bu Polly Toynbee and David Walker
This article is based on discussion at an event co-hosted by the Young Fabian Technology Network and Economy & Finance Network on “A World Without Cash” on the 6th of July, 2018.
"For youth services to have a significant impact it must put sport and recreation at the core of its delivery."
"As socialists, we cannot shy away from taking bold policy steps to safeguard peoples’ rights, freedoms and economic empowerment in this Brave New World."
Elisabeth Lindberg of the Swedish Social Democrats writes on the upcoming Swedish elections.
Societies built on liberal foundations are an aberration in human history rather than the norm and they must be defended. History is the story of humanity lurching from one crisis to the next, but even with this in consideration the current political climate is deeply concerning.
"But we don’t need to wait for a Labour Government. We are involved in the administration of 134 councils across the UK- each of which have some control of procurement policy for their own councils"
"There is an obvious temptation to link the need for renewable investment only to climate change, but voters are driven as much by passion as by logic."
"Moderates have failed to engage with the way the world has changed. Not just in terms of the impact and aftershocks of the 2008 financial crisis or Brexit, but in the way in which politics is conducted."
"Ultimately, it is a political choice whether a government prioritises free school meals or breakfast clubs. The academic benefits are pretty even between both schemes, however the studies demonstrated that breakfast clubs have more wider benefits which will affect more children."
Robert Maisey responds to a recent Fabian article discussing how the left should view communism.
"Although it has since divorced itself many times over from orthodox Marxism, social democracy’s roots are planted as firmly in Marxism as in trade unionism"
"Labour’s history of anti-communism is one to be proud of. The championing of liberty and democracy over fanciful utopias, the hard graft of improving people’s lives, is one to be proud of."
"When the benefits are so diffuse, across the world now and in the future, but the costs are specific and direct on individuals who stand to gain from exploiting new technologies or firms’ bottom lines, we cannot rely on them to make the right choice"
"The Labour Party and the wider anti-racist movement need to do better at placing counter narratives online"
"A future Labour Government could create a lasting legacy where the UK is able to lead on the resolution of humanitarian issues"
"The lack of equal marriage and abortion rights in Northern Ireland is a symptom of the problem of stubborn politicians clinging to power at the expense of progress."
"The NES will only be a success if it’s local, autonomous and with adequate investment. It has to be a true partnership between headteachers, governors, unions, educational charities like The Access project, and local government. A National Educational Service does not and should not look the same in London as it does in Birmingham."
"In short, to fundamentally change the status quo when it comes to work in Britain. A Labour government has the power to do this. But it will take time, political capital and a measure of luck."
The Young Fabian book club met up to discuss David Goodhart's The Road to Somewhere.
Chris Spencer writes up the event for our blog. Look out for the next edition of the magazine for the accompanying book review by Leon Alleyne McLaughlin.
"A more equal society is not one in which a mixed-race woman achieves status through her husband’s hereditary role in an archaic institution."
"No doctor or hospital can improve local economic opportunities, reduce hopelessness and so reverse the dramatic rise in drug related deaths. The best they can usually do is try and stop an overdose becoming fatal if the patient somehow makes it to A&E in time."
"Erasmus schemes include in not just university students, but also those taking up volunteering, teaching sports training and other staff work, and it is these other aspects of the scheme that are most at risk to government policy."
"There has been three fundamental failures of parliament in regulating this product; one of failing to act on evidence from the regulator originally, two of failing to adapt recommendations to an evolving marketplace and three a failure to ensure that there is independent oversight of the Gambling Market."
Charlotte Norton talks about her experiences of getting a Labour gain in an 'unwinnable' ward.
The Fabian Society’s Raising the Bar pamphlet seeks to understand why this has happened, and what policymakers can do to get household incomes rising again. The Raising the Bar launch event in April gave Fabian members a chance to hear more and ask questions of contributors including Annaliese Dodds MP, the political economists Prof Ozlem Onaran and Craig Berry, and John Mills (entrepreneur and Labour Party activist).
Mark Whittaker, chair of the Finance Network wrote up the event for our blog.
On election day, I found myself running round in the searing heat knocking on doors encouraging our supporters to get out and vote in Trinity Ward, Wimbledon. Though I lost, it was an amazing experience and there are many positives and lessons to take.
"Devolution is the logical solution for England; it will reinforce the union and equalise the four nations."
by John Hackett
"The provision of finance for social housing would follow the individuals who are deemed to need it, not the houses themselves. In this way, supply would expand to meet demand"
"It seems that for most young people today, rightly or wrongly, trade unions are considered rather inconsequential, tools harking back to a twentieth-century age of now declining industrial manufacturing professions, and not beneficial alliances for current popular graduate jobs."
"The problem with trade is that the costs and benefits are unevenly distributed. The former factory worker who lost his job due to low-cost imports has lost a lot more than you or I have gained from cheaper goods."
"People in rural areas feel that policy is done to them, rather than with them."
"The book also eloquently explains why the reasons behind Brexit can’t just be wished away by progressives"
Young Fabian, Ash Dharmasingham writes on British strategy in Asia.
Zeireen Fuzurally interviews Ava Etemadzadeh about Labour, Feminism and #MeToo
"Hired is uncomfortable, but essential, reading for anyone who wants to think seriously about how we solve the problem of precarious work and bring about genuine equality."
It is essential all young people are taught about neuro-diversity so we can understand and listen to our peers' needs.