UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will join Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on stage this Friday at a global summit in London, aiming to showcase that progressives can successfully counter right-wing populism. This event, known as the Global Progress Action Summit, will also feature prominent leaders such as Mark Carney and Iceland’s Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir, highlighting recent victories in progressive politics.
Starmer’s leadership has faced challenges since his Labour Party secured a decisive victory in the last election. His popularity has waned, partly due to ongoing issues surrounding immigration, particularly the increasing number of small boats crossing the English Channel. The Labour Party has struggled in the polls, overshadowed by the rise of Nigel Farage’s Reform Party, which has pushed hardline anti-immigration policies.
The summit aims to address pressing global issues, including national security, economic growth, and migration. According to the Institute for Public Policy Research, a British centre-left think tank, the event serves as a platform for progressive leaders to devise strategies to combat the rising tide of populism.
“Governments in all three countries need to raise their eyes from their immediate challenges and develop fresh ways of thinking for the years ahead,” said Harry Quilter-Pinner, executive director of the IPPR. He emphasized that the recent electoral success of progressive parties, including Labor’s substantial win in Australia, offers hope in the fight against populism.
Prime Minister Albanese arrived in London following his appearance at the United Nations General Assembly, where he participated in discussions regarding international cooperation. He expressed optimism about his engagements in the UK, which will include meetings with various left-wing leaders, including former UK Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.
On the eve of the summit, Albanese celebrated his trip by visiting the Old Mates Pub in London, where he mingled with patrons and shared a lighthearted moment, stating, “Australians know how to have fun.” His itinerary also includes a keynote address at the UK Labour Party’s annual conference in Liverpool, where he is anticipated to emphasize collaborative efforts among progressive leaders.
The event arrives at a time when the left faces significant challenges from populist movements across Europe and beyond. In a notable incident, far-right activist Tommy Robinson led a large nationalist rally in London, which attracted attention for its hardline stance on immigration. This backdrop underscores the urgency for progressive leaders to unify and present an alternative vision for society.
Organizers of the summit hope to rekindle optimism for progressive governance, focusing on sustainable economic growth and inclusive policies. Carney remarked that the summit would work towards advancing policies that foster economic opportunities in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
With increasing attention on potential candidates for the 2024 US elections, Democratic figures such as Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and former Transport Secretary Pete Buttigieg may also draw interest during the summit. Their presence highlights the interconnectedness of global progressive movements and the importance of collaboration in addressing common challenges.
As Friday’s summit draws near, Albanese will continue his UK visit with a focus on strengthening ties with international partners. Following the summit, he plans to visit Scotland to meet with King Charles III at Balmoral, marking a significant diplomatic engagement.
In a world increasingly dominated by divisive politics, the Global Progress Action Summit represents a crucial opportunity for progressive leaders to reaffirm their commitment to inclusivity and collaboration in governance.
