The Social Commons: Rethinking Social Justice in Post-Neoliberal Societies

As the world's neo-liberal economic order continues to self-destruct in a climate of non growth and widening inequality, the birth of new social movements and alternatives are disrupting the old politics and business "as usual" in Europe, the Americas and Asia. The Social Commons: Rethinking Social Justice in Post-Neoliberal Societies by Francine Mestrum is a new and original entry into the debate of what these all mean and how to bring on a new framework and system of social justice and protection. Mestrum, who has published books in Dutch, French and English, is a member of the board of Centre Tricontinental (CETRI), which she represents in the International Council of the World Social Forum. She coordinates the global network of Global Social Justice.
With this new book Mestrum adds to the global debate on alternatives to neoliberal globalization, saying, "We have to make ‘progress’ in such a way that we can ensure the sustainability of life, of humankind and of nature. This requires major changes, and this book only has pointed to one dimension of these changes, social protection," There is no alternative but to seek change: "...the putting into place of social commons will require a new kind of state, one that takes responsibility for the welfare of its people, and one that is willing to cooperate with other states. It will require a new social pact, at the national and the international levels. This will not be easy to achieve, but we have no other choice if we want to avoid the phantom ships and trains with migrants knocking on the doors of western Europe and the United States."
This book will be a serious read for researchers and academics, policy makers on global political and economic issues and universities as well as inter governmental organisations. It will also appeal to a general audience interested in global and social justice issues and is written with passion in a focused and applicable manner.