Pat Harrington’s Third Way New Year Message: Call for Change

As we welcome a new year, we at Third Way extend our warmest wishes to all who share our vision for a fairer, more peaceful, and truly democratic society. The year behind us has been one of challenges and lessons, and we remain resolute in our commitment to advancing policies that put people, peace, and sovereignty at the heart of governance.

A Call for Armed Neutrality

This year, the UK’s involvement in foreign conflicts has continued to raise serious ethical and strategic concerns. The deployment of military personnel, the sales of arms to regimes with questionable human rights records, and the public subsidies directed toward fueling conflicts abroad all contradict the principle of armed neutrality that we advocate. Such actions not only perpetuate global instability but also divert critical resources from addressing pressing domestic issues. Third Way will continue to campaign for a foreign policy rooted in peace, diplomacy, and neutrality—one that reflects the will of the British people and prioritizes our national interest over entanglements in endless wars.

Empowering People Through Direct Democracy

Across the globe, 2024 has seen a mix of successes and setbacks for direct democracy. From citizens’ initiatives in Switzerland to participatory budgeting experiments in cities worldwide, there are inspiring examples of people taking charge of their destinies. However, we have also witnessed attempts to undermine popular sovereignty through authoritarian measures and opaque governance. Third Way believes that bringing power back to the people is essential. In the UK, we will continue to push for mechanisms such as referenda, citizens’ assemblies, and digital platforms that enhance transparency and give every citizen a voice in shaping our future.

Economic and Technological Sovereignty

The past year has highlighted the UK’s vulnerabilities in economic and technological sovereignty. Dependence on foreign supply chains and multinational corporations has exposed us to economic shocks and limited our ability to chart an independent course. Third Way is committed to policies that rebuild British industries, foster innovation, and ensure that the fruits of technological advancement benefit the many, not the few. We will advocate for investments in education, infrastructure, and homegrown research that place the UK at the forefront of sustainable development.

Addressing Drug Problems with Pragmatism

The UK continues to grapple with a growing drug crisis, with lives lost and communities fractured. The prohibitionist approach has failed, leaving a legacy of criminalization and unregulated markets. Third Way proposes a bold alternative: the legalization and regulation of drugs. By treating addiction as a health issue rather than a criminal one, we can reduce harm, dismantle illicit markets, and fund public health initiatives that save lives. This policy is not only pragmatic but also compassionate, aligning with our belief in evidence-based solutions.

A New Labour Government: Progress and Shortcomings

The election of a new Labour government has brought hope for change, but it has yet to deliver fully for working people. While we welcome steps toward renationalization in key sectors, we believe these measures must go further. Third Way envisions a society where workers are not just employees but owners of their workplaces, sharing in the wealth they create. Moreover, the financial sector remains a critical area for reform. We call for the nationalization of banks to ensure that financial institutions serve the public good rather than private profit. This is essential for building a resilient economy that works for everyone.

As we move into 2025, we reaffirm our commitment to advocating for policies that prioritize peace, democracy, and economic justice. Together, we can build a society that truly works for the many, not the few. Thank you for your continued support, and here’s to a year of progress and possibility.

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