Constructive programmes aim to prefigure a different world, by understanding and replacing forms of power-over and violence in its direct, structural and cultural forms with structures and ways of relating that build grassroots power-with and power-within, that are emancipatory, democratic, and not structurally or culturally violent. Constructive programmes work alongside – not in addition, or separately – from direct acts of resistance, campaigning, and direct action.
In summary, constructive programmes:
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Address forms of structural and cultural violence that are impacting a community
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Challenge forms of power-over that are impacting the community from the outside, and that characterise relationships internally,
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Empower individuals and the community - building power-with and power-within – as the community sets about meeting their own needs. They provide space and opportunity to participate in active nonviolent resistance and direct action.
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Redistribute power and resources to the community most effected by decisions
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Prefigure a future in the present, exemplify an alternative