Caracas, November 28 – With the conclusion of the Congress of the Organizational Committees of the International Antifascist Movement, a new chapter in the global fight against fascism begins. Delegates from around the world gathered in the Venezuelan capital to approve important resolutions and build an international network dedicated to defending freedom, justice, and human rights.
This congress followed the Youth and Students Congress, organized to foster intergenerational dialogue and lay the foundations for enduring collaboration in the antifascist struggle. The event marked a meeting point between the vitality and energy of younger generations and the experience and strategy of institutions already active in this fight.
A New Global Organization: The International Antifascist Movement
The most significant moment of the congress was the approval of the founding document of the International Antifascist Movement. This organization, headquartered in Caracas, aims to coordinate antifascist initiatives globally. The creation of this network represents a tangible response to the rising threat of authoritarian and discriminatory movements that, in various parts of the world, endanger the democratic and social achievements of the 20th century.
The unanimously approved document establishes the Movement’s guiding principles: the promotion of democracy, the protection of human rights, social inclusion, and the condemnation of all forms of discrimination. The organization plans to act through awareness campaigns, educational programs, and cultural initiatives, aiming to strengthen public consciousness about the dangers of fascism and effective ways to counter it.
Key Interventions: Grecia Colmenares, Jorge Rodríguez, and Carlo Di Martino
Among the notable figures participating in the congress, Youth Minister Grecia Colmenares highlighted the crucial role of younger generations. “Youth are not just the future but the engine of change today. It is essential to provide them with the tools to fight all forms of oppression and build a society based on justice and equality,” she stated.
Jorge Rodríguez, President of the Venezuelan National Assembly, emphasized the importance of international cooperation. “The fight against fascism cannot be tackled in isolation. We must unite forces, share experiences and strategies, and build strong alliances to confront common challenges,” he said.
For Italy, Carlo Di Martino, intellectual and representative of the Risorgimento Socialista movement, delivered a passionate speech. Di Martino stressed the need for Italian politics to actively participate in the International Antifascist Movement, underscoring the importance of rediscovering the values of the Resistance. “Italy has an antifascist history that must be rediscovered and valued. Only in this way can we firmly respond to the authoritarian tendencies threatening democracy, both nationally and internationally,” he declared.
Announcement of the World Festival of Antifascist Youth
Another key moment of the congress was the announcement of the World Festival of Antifascist Youth, to be held in Venezuela during the first week of January. This unique event will serve as a platform for young people from around the world to come together and celebrate the values of solidarity, peace, and social justice.
The festival’s program will include debates, workshops, art exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural activities, all aimed at raising awareness among participants about the dangers of fascism and the importance of uniting to fight it. “This festival will be a celebration of global resistance. Young people, with their energy and creativity, will show the world that fascism has no future,” said one of the organizers during the event’s presentation.
Caracas: A Symbol of Hope and Resistance
The choice of Caracas as the central headquarters of the International Antifascist Movement and the Youth Festival is no coincidence. The Venezuelan capital, with its long history of struggle against imperialism and social injustices, represents a beacon of hope for those who believe in the values of democracy and social justice.
“Caracas is not just a city; it is a symbol of unity and determination,” Grecia Colmenares stated during the closing speech. Her statement reflects the sentiment shared by many delegates, who see Venezuela as a strategic partner in building a fairer and more inclusive future.
A Global Message Against Fascism
The Congress of the Organizational Committees of the International Antifascist Movement was not just a moment of analysis and discussion but also a starting point for concrete actions. With the founding of the International Antifascist Movement and the announcement of the World Festival of Antifascist Youth, a new phase begins in the fight against fascism.
The message from Caracas is clear and resolute: the global community will not remain silent in the face of authoritarian threats. Through cooperation, solidarity, and shared action, the antifascist movement demonstrates its readiness to defend the fundamental rights of every individual and to build a future based on peace and equality.
“There is no future without justice, no peace without freedom, and no progress without solidarity. This is our commitment, today and always,” concluded Colmenares, leaving the delegates with a message of hope and determination.
With these significant achievements, Caracas confirms itself as a global crossroads for the antifascist struggle and an example of how, by joining forces, we can face the greatest challenges of our time.
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