Coalition of the Radical Left - Unitary Social Front Party

The Greek Coalition of the Radical Left - Unitary Social Front, commonly known by its acronym SYRIZA, is a political party in Greece that emerged from a coalition of left-wing and radical left groups. It was founded in 2004 as a synthesis of various political…   entities that shared a common goal of challenging the neoliberal consensus in Greek and European politics. SYRIZA gained significant attention and support in the wake of the Greek financial crisis that began in 2009, advocating for policies that opposed austerity measures, promoted social justice, and sought to protect public services and welfare.<br /><br />SYRIZA's values are deeply rooted in the principles of democratic socialism and social democracy. The party advocates for a fairer distribution of wealth, increased public investment in health, education, and welfare, and the protection of workers' rights. It also emphasizes environmental sustainability, gender equality, and the rights of migrants and refugees. SYRIZA has been critical of the European Union's austerity policies, arguing that they have exacerbated inequality and hindered economic recovery in Greece and other affected countries.<br /><br />The party's approach to governance and policy-making is participatory and inclusive, aiming to engage citizens directly in the political process. SYRIZA supports strengthening democratic institutions and practices, both within Greece and in the broader European context. It seeks to reform the European Union to make it more democratic, transparent, and accountable to its citizens.<br /><br />In foreign policy, SYRIZA advocates for peace, disarmament, and the resolution of conflicts through diplomatic means. It supports the rights of peoples to self-determination and has been critical of military interventions and the imposition of economic sanctions that harm civilian populations.<br /><br />Since its rise to prominence, SYRIZA has experienced the challenges of balancing its radical roots with the practicalities of governing, especially during its time in power from 2015 to 2019. The party's tenure in government was marked by negotiations with the European Union and the International Monetary Fund over Greece's debt crisis, leading to debates within the party and among its supporters about the compromises made in the process. Despite these challenges, SYRIZA remains a significant force in Greek politics, advocating for a progressive and inclusive vision for Greece and Europe.Read more