Lahore is currently playing host to a historic gathering of activists, scholars, and political organisers from across the world at the International Anti-Imperialist Conference. The event has brought together voices from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, all united by a shared goal: to challenge modern forms of imperialism and build stronger solidarity across borders. At a time when global tensions, economic inequality, and political instability are rising, the conference has struck a tone that is both urgent and hopeful.
Over the course of several days, participants have engaged in discussions on a wide range of issues, including economic dependency, military intervention, climate injustice, and the ongoing struggles of oppressed peoples. Speakers have emphasised that imperialism today is not always obvious – it often works through financial systems, trade agreements, and political influence rather than direct colonial rule. Despite the escalating international tensions as the United States and Israel drag on a war against Iran that has drawn much of West Asia into its vortex, the atmosphere at the conference has remained energetic and forward-looking, with many attendees stressing the importance of collective action.
The conference’s speaker lineup reflects a wide and carefully chosen mix of voices from across regions and disciplines, each bringing a distinct perspective on imperialism and resistance. Participants include Radhika Desai, known for her work on political economy and the shifting balance of global power, and Gabriel Rockhill, whose work on the historical development of critical theory in the West has stirred much recent discussion. Max Ajl, Ali Kadri, and Farwa Sial contribute grounded analyses of development, agriculture, and industrial policy in the Global South. Helyeh Doughtagi brings crucial insights into international law and political economy, while Matteo Capasso examines the political and economic history of the Middle East.
In a bold departure from Western academic trends, the Lahore Declaration defends the state as a necessary and vital tool for resisting external imperialist pressures
The lineup is further strengthened by voices like Fadiah Nadwa, who works on human rights and anti-corruption; Jorge Rocha, who connects socialist organizing to international struggles; Pawel Wargan, who works on international activism and global coordination; and Bikrum Gill, whose work bridges politics and global relations. Taken together, the speakers represent a blend of academic depth and activist experience, helping ensure that discussions at the conference remain both intellectually rich and closely tied to real-world struggles.
At the heart of the conference is the newly announced Lahore Declaration, a document that many participants see as its most important outcome. The declaration lays out a shared vision for resisting imperialism in all its forms and calls for stronger cooperation between movements worldwide. Written in clear and direct language, it avoids heavy jargon and instead focuses on practical ideas and commitments.
One of the key messages of the Lahore Declaration is the need for unity. It highlights how struggles in different parts of the world are connected – whether it is workers fighting for fair wages, communities resisting land grabs, or nations pushing back against foreign interference. By linking these struggles together, the declaration aims to build a sense of global solidarity that goes beyond borders and ideologies.
Another important aspect of the declaration is its focus on self-determination. It strongly supports the right of people everywhere to decide their own political and economic futures without outside pressure. This includes opposition to military occupations, economic sanctions, and policies imposed by powerful countries or institutions. In this way, the document speaks not just to activists, but also to ordinary people who feel the impact of global power imbalances in their daily lives.
A notable and somewhat bold element of the Lahore Declaration is its clear support for the role of the state as a tool for resisting imperialism – especially in points 8 and 9. This stands out because, for years, much of Western academic thinking and activism has tended to view the state with suspicion, often seeing it mainly as a source of control or repression. The declaration pushes back on that idea, arguing that in many parts of the world, the state can still serve as a vital force against external pressure and exploitation.
In a global moment increasingly described as a shift toward multipolarity – where power is less concentrated in a single bloc – this perspective feels especially relevant.
Rather than rejecting the state outright, the declaration calls for reclaiming and reshaping it so that it works in the interests of ordinary people, protects national sovereignty, and resists economic and political domination from more powerful countries. This more grounded, pragmatic view reflects the realities faced by many nations in the Global South, where strong public institutions can play a key role in pushing back against unequal global systems.
The Lahore Declaration also stands out for its emphasis on action. Rather than simply identifying problems, it calls for concrete steps such as strengthening grassroots movements, building alliances between labour groups and social organisations, and sharing resources and knowledge across countries. It encourages participants to take what they have learned at the conference back to their communities and turn ideas into real change.
Many attendees have described the declaration as a “living document,” meaning it is meant to grow and adapt over time. This flexibility reflects the understanding that the fight against imperialism is ongoing and constantly changing. It also shows a willingness to listen and evolve, which has been widely praised as a strength of the conference.
Beyond the formal sessions and speeches, the conference has also created space for cultural exchange and personal connections. Participants have shared stories, music, and experiences, helping to build trust and understanding among people from very different backgrounds. This human element has added depth to the political discussions and reinforced the idea that solidarity is not just a concept, but something that must be built through relationships.
As the conference continues, its impact is already being felt. The Lahore Declaration has given participants a clear framework to carry forward, while the connections made here are likely to lead to future collaborations. For many, the event represents a reminder that even in a divided world, there are still spaces where people can come together to imagine and work toward a more just and equal future.
In a time when global challenges can feel overwhelming, the International Anti-Imperialist Conference in Lahore offers a different perspective – one rooted in cooperation, shared purpose, and the belief that change is possible when people stand together.