This particular event series, hosted by WFM-Canada's Toronto Branch, delves into thought-provoking discussions about democracy's trajectory and its global implications. The Toronto Branch's resident economist Peter Venton, kicked off the session by introducing Dena Freeman's video essay, “The History and Future of Democracy,” part of the expansive "Global Democracy and Justice" series now available on YouTube. 

Dena Freeman's presentation offers a critical examination of democracy's evolution and challenges. She traces the rise and current crises of national democracies, explaining how economic powers have gradually slipped away from democratic controls. This shift, predominantly occurring between 1950 and 1980, left nations grappling with less effective regulatory tools to curb economic inequality.

As the global economy grew rapidly in the 1980s, a disconnect between national economies and the burgeoning global market became apparent. Freeman argues that without a unified global democratic structure, it is nearly impossible for individual nations to regulate and balance economic disparities effectively. The evasion of corporate taxes and the use of tax havens are poignant examples of how current systems fall short, suggesting that a world government might be the solution.

The Discussion

The discussion session highlighted the detrimental "race to the bottom" in tax policies since the 1970s, spurred by the influence of affluent elites. This has led to a stark decrease in tax rates that once supported social programs and economic equality, significantly impacting the distribution of wealth.

The discussion also touched upon the growing disparities that have an impact on today's youth, challenging them to achieve the lifestyle and economic stability once accessible to previous generations. The corporate elite effectively siphon wealth from the middle and working class by circumventing laws created by national economies, , leading to increased economic inequality. This issue is exacerbated by tax policies and loopholes that favor the wealthy, further destabilizing the socioeconomic fabric. As a result, young people today face significant barriers to attaining the same level of financial security and quality of life that their parents and grandparents once enjoyed. In addressing these challenges, it is crucial for policies to focus on closing these gaps and creating a more equitable economic environment that enables all individuals to thrive.

Another key point from the discussion highlighted the crucial importance of civic education and the integration of comprehensive studies on democracy and political economy into school curricula. In an era marked by misinformation and politically driven agendas, it's evident that many individuals feel the effects of systemic issues yet struggle to pinpoint their origins accurately. This often results in misplaced blame, with people directing their dissatisfaction towards scapegoats like immigrants, rather than addressing the real sources of the problems. Enhancing civic education could empower individuals to better understand and effectively challenge these deep-seated issues, placing pressure where it truly belongs to foster meaningful change.

This dialogue serves as a clarion call for rethinking democratic structures and economic policies to ensure a just global society. The session not only provided a rich historical context but also a forward-looking perspective on how global governance could reshape our collective future.

What can the Toronto Branch do to make a difference?

Concluding our discussion for every event, we aim to not only educate and inspire but also to consider practical steps we can take at the local and global levels. By focusing on actionable outcomes, we ensure that our discussions lead to tangible change and progress towards a more just and democratic global society.

To further the discussion on global democracy and economic policies, the Toronto Branch of WFM-Canada can take several impactful steps:

• Educational Initiatives: Develop educational programs and workshops that highlight the significance of global democratic governance and its economic impacts. Target a broad audience, including local communities and educational institutions.

• Advocacy Campaigns: Collaborate with allied organizations for advocacy campaigns to influence public policy, focusing on the advantages of a global economic system and the potential roles of a world government.

• Public Lectures: Host public lectures with experts like Dena Freeman to discuss key issues like democracy and economic inequality. This can promote understanding and engagement among the public.

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