Youth Think Tank “Ideas at War” Takes Action to Address Rising Social Discontent
The members of the youth think tank Ideas at War refuse to succumb to resignation in the face of growing social and political unrest. Drawing inspiration from the 15M movement that shook the Spanish political landscape 13 years ago, this diverse group of researchers, students, and graduates have united to create a Manifesto for Wellbeing.
According to Angel Muelas, co-director of Ideas en Guerra, the current social and political context is marked by increasing uncertainty and discontent, exploited by reactionary forces. They highlight the rising risk of poverty, growing inequality, and the erosion of trust in political institutions as key concerns.
The Manifesto for Wellbeing addresses these challenges through four key areas: work, public housing, ecological planning, and participation in democratic processes. They call for a reduction in the working day, reforms to the housing market to address social exclusion, and urgent action on the climate crisis.
The Manifesto has garnered support from a range of experts and activists, including representatives from labor unions, academia, and civil society organizations. Their goal is to spark a public conversation about the right to a good life and to advocate for policies that prioritize the wellbeing of all citizens.
The creators of this initiative emphasize the need for a fundamental shift in thinking about social welfare and aim to lay the groundwork for a more equitable and sustainable society. The Manifesto will be officially presented on May 8th, with the Minister of Youth and Children expected to attend the event in Madrid. The project is described as an open initiative that aspires to have a lasting impact on the future of wellbeing for all.