From November 22 to 23, Caracas became the beating heart of the global anti-fascist movement. The Venezuelan capital hosted the International Congress of Young People and Students Against Fascism, an event that welcomed delegates from over 70 countries, including Italy. This initiative was part of the World Anti-Fascist Congress, marking a pivotal moment for the birth of a new international anti-fascist movement.
The conference concluded with a significant address by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who chose his birthday to announce major initiatives. Among the key points of his speech, Maduro proclaimed the foundation of the International Movement of Students and Young People Against Fascism, an ambitious project aimed at strengthening global cooperation against fascism and neo-fascism. Additionally, the president announced plans to establish an Institute for the Study of Fascism in Caracas, solidifying the city’s position as a symbolic capital of international anti-fascism.
Neo-fascism and Social Media: A Pressing Issue
One of the central themes of the congress was the role of neo-fascism on social media, a particularly relevant issue in Venezuela. Following last summer’s presidential elections, social media platforms fueled political tensions, leading to violent protests that caused significant damage and loss of life. This topic received extensive attention during the debates, highlighting the urgent need for strategies to counter the spread of extremist content online and to address the role of digital platforms in youth radicalization.
The congress also featured contributions from Grecia Colmenares, secretary of the youth wing of the PSUV (United Socialist Party of Venezuela), and Nicolás Maduro Guerra, the president’s son. Both emphasized the importance of uniting youth forces on an international level to combat new forms of fascism and authoritarianism.
Future Projects and an International Perspective
During his closing address, Nicolás Maduro announced plans for a major International Youth Festival, scheduled for January 2025. This event will serve as an opportunity to consolidate the networks established during the congress and promote further initiatives supporting global cooperation. The decision to invest in these projects underscores Venezuela’s commitment to positioning itself as a central hub in the fight against fascism.
The Italian Voice at the Congress
Among the international delegates, Carlo di Martino, representative of Italy’s “Risorgimento Socialista” movement, stood out. Di Martino praised the value of the Bolivarian Revolution and the importance of activism in rebuilding an anti-fascist international alliance. He emphasized how this initiative is crucial for fostering tangible cooperation among young people worldwide, reiterating the central role of the new generations in defending democratic values.
Caracas: The Capital of Anti-Fascism
With the conclusion of this congress, Caracas has established itself not only as a symbol of resistance but also as a space for dialogue and exchange for anti-fascist movements worldwide. The announcement of the Institute for the Study of Fascism and the organization of future events represent significant steps toward strengthening the global fight against authoritarian ideologies.
The energy and commitment demonstrated by the young participants reflect a vibrant desire to build a fairer and more inclusive world. The birth of the International Movement of Students and Young People Against Fascism marks the beginning of a new phase of global mobilization, where future generations are called upon to play a leading role in the defense of freedom and democracy.
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