Joint Statement (Unlock Democracy)
From Democracywiki
Contents |
Briefing statement on the purpose of the proposed joint organisation
Unlock Democracy (or its successor name) argues and campaigns for a vibrant, inclusive democracy that puts power in the hands of the people.
We seek a democratic participative process resulting in a written constitution. That constitution would define the roles and relationships between the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary. It would determine the manner and extent to which power is shared between representatives at local, national and the United Kingdom levels, and within international organisations.
We campaign:
- to ensure that the votes of all carry equal weight
- for transparency in public decision making
- to achieve legislative changes that modernise our governance
- to ensure that power is exercised as close to people as is practicable
- to empower individuals and their communities to have a greater say over the decisions that affect them
- for democratic accountability of all elected representatives, government and public bodies
We promote:
- a new culture of informed political interest and responsibility, paving the way for increased enthusiastic public participation
- a pluralist democracy that is responsive to the problems and aspirations of all people, valuing and accommodating difference and diversity. Everyone has the right to live their life in dignity under the law, and free from fear.
Unlock Democracy is a non-aligned organisation, committed to working inclusively across the political spectrum. We seek to build respect for human rights into our practice. We stand against cynicism and disengagement, and for a living democracy with the people, all the people, at its heart.
Current Campaigns, Spring 2007
Immediate campaigning priorities
- Reform of the House of Lords to become a democratically elected body
- To devolve power away from centralised control, for example through the Sustainable Communities Bill
- For a Bill of Rights that reflects the opinion of the people
- Initiatives on different ways of public participation in governance
On-going campaigns
- A system of Proportional Representation for electing Members of Parliament and Councillors
- Removing the influence of wealthy organisations and individuals in our political system
- Our Parliament to have the power to hold the government to account
- For our constitution to be written
Our campaigning approach will include a mixture of both traditional and more creative activities. We will challenge all political parties on their commitment to our agenda.
Tapping into the skills and energies of our own members, supporters and allies is critical. Our highly professional and committed staff, based in London, can only do so much work with the media and lobbying politicians. Local Groups and active members throughout the country are necessary to have the kind of impact needed to win changes.
Events, such as the People and Politics Day in November, 2006 that brought together almost 2000 young people at Westminster, show what can be done with imagination, combined with hard work. More events and activities in the regions and nations that use the talents of our members will be supported from our Head Office when there are local initiatives.
Using the media is crucial, both nationally and locally. A letter from a single member to a local paper, or call to a radio station, can be worth more than 10,000 leaflets.
We will be using an up-to-date and interactive website to assist members in their activities as well as encouraging debate and the sharing of ideas throughout our organisation, and with others who are interested.
We are at our strongest when national campaigns are backed-up locally, and local initiatives are undertaken with the support and resources of the national organisation.
