Fourth International

History

The Fourth International (FI) is an international organization of Trotskyist parties and groups, founded in 1938 by Leon Trotsky and his supporters in opposition to the policies of the Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin. The FI was established to promote the theory of Permanent Revolution, which Trotsky developed in contrast to the Stalinist doctrine of Socialism in One Country. The organization aimed to lead the global working class to socialist revolution and to establish a socialist society worldwide.

Founding and Early Years

The Fourth International was founded in Paris on September 3, 1938. The founding conference was attended by delegates from 11 countries, representing various Trotskyist groups. The primary objective was to create a new revolutionary leadership that could replace the Communist International (Comintern), which Trotskyists believed had degenerated under Stalin's leadership.

The founding document, known as the Transitional Program, outlined the FI's strategy and goals. It emphasized the need for transitional demands that bridge the gap between the immediate struggles of the working class and the ultimate goal of socialist revolution. These demands included calls for workers' control of production, the expropriation of the bourgeoisie, and the establishment of workers' councils.

World War II and Post-War Period

During World War II, the Fourth International faced significant challenges. Many of its leaders were persecuted, imprisoned, or killed by fascist regimes, Stalinist forces, and capitalist governments. Despite these difficulties, the FI continued to operate clandestinely and sought to build its influence within the labor movement.

After the war, the Fourth International experienced a period of growth, particularly in Europe and Latin America. However, internal disagreements and external pressures led to several splits and realignments. One of the most significant splits occurred in 1953 when the International Secretariat, led by Michel Pablo and Ernest Mandel, clashed with the International Committee, led by James P. Cannon and the Socialist Workers Party (SWP) in the United States.

The 1960s and 1970s

The 1960s and 1970s were marked by a resurgence of revolutionary movements worldwide, including the Cuban Revolution, the Vietnam War, and the May 1968 events in France. The Fourth International sought to align itself with these movements and expand its influence. During this period, the FI adopted a more flexible approach to organizational unity, seeking to collaborate with other leftist groups and movements.

In 1963, the two main factions of the Fourth International, the International Secretariat and the International Committee, reunited to form the United Secretariat of the Fourth International (USFI). This reunification aimed to strengthen the FI's global presence and coordinate its activities more effectively.

Recent Developments

In recent decades, the Fourth International has continued to evolve and adapt to changing political landscapes. The organization has focused on building solidarity with social movements, promoting anti-imperialist struggles, and addressing issues such as climate change, gender equality, and racial justice. The FI remains committed to the principles of Trotskyism and the goal of achieving a socialist society through revolutionary means.

Ideology

The Fourth International's ideology is rooted in the theories and writings of Leon Trotsky. Central to its beliefs is the concept of Permanent Revolution, which argues that socialist revolutions must be continuous and international in scope. The FI rejects the notion that socialism can be achieved in a single country, emphasizing the need for global proletarian solidarity.

The FI also upholds the importance of workers' democracy and opposes bureaucratic centralism. It advocates for the establishment of workers' councils and the direct participation of the working class in decision-making processes. Additionally, the FI supports the self-determination of oppressed nations and the struggle against all forms of oppression, including racism, sexism, and homophobia.

Organizational Structure

The Fourth International operates as a decentralized network of affiliated parties and groups. Its highest decision-making body is the World Congress, which meets periodically to discuss and adopt resolutions on key issues. The International Committee, elected by the World Congress, oversees the day-to-day activities of the organization and coordinates its international work.

The FI's member organizations are autonomous and operate independently within their respective countries. They are united by their adherence to the principles of Trotskyism and their commitment to the goals of the Fourth International. The FI also maintains fraternal relations with other revolutionary socialist organizations and movements.

Activities and Campaigns

The Fourth International engages in a wide range of activities and campaigns to advance its revolutionary objectives. These include:

**Political Education**: The FI conducts educational programs and publishes literature to promote Trotskyist ideas and analysis. This includes the publication of theoretical journals, pamphlets, and books.
**Trade Union Work**: The FI works within trade unions to advocate for workers' rights and to build support for socialist policies. It seeks to transform unions into militant organizations that can lead the struggle for socialism.
**Solidarity Campaigns**: The FI organizes and participates in solidarity campaigns to support struggles against imperialism, colonialism, and oppression. This includes campaigns in support of national liberation movements, anti-war efforts, and human rights initiatives.
**Electoral Participation**: In some countries, FI-affiliated parties participate in elections to promote their program and gain representation. While electoral success is not the primary goal, it is seen as a means to raise awareness and build support for revolutionary socialism.

Criticisms and Controversies

The Fourth International has faced various criticisms and controversies throughout its history. Some critics argue that the FI's emphasis on revolutionary purity and its opposition to reformist strategies have limited its ability to build broad-based support. Others contend that the organization's internal divisions and factionalism have weakened its effectiveness.

Additionally, the FI's stance on certain issues, such as its opposition to Stalinism and its critique of Soviet policies, has led to tensions with other leftist groups. Despite these challenges, the Fourth International continues to play a role in the global socialist movement and remains committed to its revolutionary principles.

Legacy and Influence

The Fourth International's legacy is marked by its steadfast commitment to Trotskyist principles and its efforts to build a global revolutionary movement. While the FI has not achieved its ultimate goal of a worldwide socialist revolution, it has made significant contributions to the development of revolutionary theory and practice.

The FI's influence can be seen in various social movements and political struggles around the world. Its emphasis on internationalism, workers' democracy, and anti-oppression has resonated with many activists and organizations. The Fourth International's continued existence and activities demonstrate the enduring relevance of Trotskyist ideas in the contemporary struggle for socialism.

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