The International Forum “BASIS-2025” was recently held in Bishkek. It brought together left-wing activists, researchers and trade unionists from post-Soviet countries (Central Asia, the Caucasus, Russia, Ukraine, EU countries), including representatives from other countries (Moldova, Great Britain). PSL activists also took a special part in the forum.
It became a valuable space for exchanging experiences of left-wing post-Soviet countries, analyzing the situation in our countries and an act of solidarity with each other. Participants discussed systemic problems of labor, inequality, authoritarianism, atomization, the rise of nationalism and environmental problems in post-Soviet societies – and how to counter the destructive actions of right-wing regimes collectively.
Particular attention was paid to issues of international cooperation and coordination of actions between organizations in the region, as well as their external interaction. During the discussions, both common challenges and opportunities for building joint strategies of struggle became clear.
The discussions at the forum showed that despite differences in details, we have much more in common than it seems. The suppression of trade unions, militarization, exploitation of resources and authoritarian shifts – all this requires an international response. That is why it is so important today for all those who advocate peace from below, for fundamental socialist transformations – despite nationalisms and state borders, to unite.
These meetings are especially relevant against the backdrop of Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan and the growth of xenophobia throughout the post-Soviet space. We hope for further cooperation within the framework of the agreements reached and the initiatives already launched.
