There was a request for this document to be translated into English. Because of its length and since parts of it are missing I submit instead this summary. --------------------------------------------
NETWORK SYNTHESIS
The writer begins with a brief history of the Zapatista struggle and the first Encuentro where it was decided to set up a global network which would co-ordinate groups around the world which are opposed to neo-liberalism.
People had come from 5 continents and the richness of their discussions gave testimony to their dignity which neo-liberalism would like to deny.
The writer then details the sufferings of people around the world: lack of food, water, education etc. S/he draws attention to the way the system would divide us into races, gender groups, 'Now we say "Basta" (enough) and are starting to do things our way. It will take time but we have already begun'.
The First Declaration of the Reality called for the building of bridges between people. The second Declaration of the Reality set up a network of struggle and communication so that these bridges could become a reality.
This concept of a network, because of its flexibility and versatility, is the new way in which we seek to oppose the reality of the system, 'By network we understand a movement under permanent construction, of people and organisations who link up, communicate and co-ordinate the different struggles for humanity and against neo-liberalism'.
There is no specific centre as they are of a horizontal structure and are able to come together and act collectively using whatever technology is available and all forms of social relationships.
- an information network which delimits an area of communication, a continula flow of data generated by the day to day actions of those involved.
- a preventative network which allows for the anticipation of problems before they can generate irreversible actions.
- a network of constant interaction of experiences, ideas, methods which allow people to enrich themselves and promote economic and social alternatives.
A NETWORK OF NETWORKS AND CONTACT WITH OTHER NETWORKS
On the one hand we have the continuing consolidation of this network. In this sense the encuentro has proved to be a step forward. It has achieved a high degree of consolidation in the Americas and Europe but also people from other places are represented. Still, there is work to be done, 'Perhaps one way of consolidating this dynamic is to widen the regional co-ordination structures which were set up for this encuentro'. Also we can see the necessity of linking up with other networks such as health workers, anti-nuclear campaigners, ecology groups (particularly oil), mass media groups, women and lesbians. We must come together whilst maintaining our autonomy.
It is vital that this co-ordination goes beyond simple information or 'virtual' co-ordination and we must aim for a real mechanism involved in real struggles.
agreement on 3 fronts:
1/ From the moment the meeting ends to set up an exchange of information. This must not just be exchange of data but must stimulate debate, action etc.
2/ An agreement to co-ordinate the debate back home in your localities.
3/ To spread the word to all those involved in daily struggles.
PROPOSALS FOR CAMPAIGNS AND CONCRETE ACTIONS
important running the risk of overlooking some that others may feel more important.
- A campaign against the World Trade Organisation. An Alternative Congress in Geneva in March and co-ordinated actions around the world in parallel to the meeting in May 1998.
- Support for those movements against neo-liberalism, Maastricht and the single curreny in Europe in the first week of December.
- A campaign from 8-12 October to denounce the imperialism of the North.
- People of the World. In coordination with the human chain to culminate in New York on 12th October.
- Boycots aimed at transnationals labour policies, attacks on indigenous peoples. Campaigns against Shell, Nestle and Siemens
- Support for the parallel congress in Tokyo in December 1997.
- Actions denouncing political prisoners on 9th February 1998.
- Action against patriarchy 25th November.
- Womens participation in the uprising on 1st Jan 1998 (the anniversary)
- Day of action on health and food 14th December
- Setting up of a technical group to deal with ecology questions
- Support for campaigns against the Schlengen agreement.
The setting up of this network on an intercontinental level is part of the struggle for a better future this is why it is necessary for us to carry on the debate begun at the encuentro in our own localities. We therefore suggest this be an ongoing process from now until December. We also suggest the encuentros happen more frequently - say every two years.
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