Our 6 Principles

The 6 Principles of Working Class Struggle

These are our guiding points in unifying ourselves to organize and build the struggle in the interests of ALL workers and laborers.

1) Class antagonism There is no reconciliation possible between the workers and the capitalists (company/owners/self-serving bosses/management). Workers are not “exchanging labor for a fair wage” but are being robbed by their class enemy. Exploitation is inherent in the relationship. Even if we win concessions, we must never be satisfied.

2) Collectivity There is no way to win this struggle as individuals. Working class unity is crucial.

3) Combativeness There is no way to win by cooperating with the enemy, being subsumed by them, or avoiding confrontation with them, but it must be through struggle–whatever level of struggle corresponds to the capacity we have at a given time.

4) Internal democracy Once we have established an organization with a basic orientation, it must function internally with democratic practices. Each member should be encouraged to participate fully and openly state their views. We don’t want bureaucratic structures or foot soldiers, but for every individual to increase their capacity for the strength of the collective.

5) Class autonomy We must make sure that our struggles are in our class interests, and not inadvertently serve the interests of other classes. The working class must lead, self-manage and control its own struggle, and not be led by capitalist proxies (establishment unions that collaborate with management, NGOs, politicians, legalistic means). Even if we use those entities in specific situations as we build our capacity, like bringing in unions or lawyers, they must be under the control of autonomous workers organizations.

6) Internationalism The capitalists are an international class, and so are workers. We have more in common with one another as workers across borders than we do with the capitalists in our home countries. National borders were arbitrarily set up by capitalists in the first place—they cross them at will, while limiting our freedom to do so. We need to build solidarity with workers globally to strengthen our common struggle. “Workers of the world: Unite!” is not just a slogan, but is a guide to action.