Big Society or Big Government? It’s not the Size but the Magic You Make with It

My American flatmate enjoys reminding me that it’s not the size of the wand that matters but the magic you make with it. He doesn’t refer to politics… but for this purpose, it fits.

This week the Tories launched their Manifesto Big Society Not Big Government. They ask for less state intervention, civil society taking more responsibility for society. The sector obviously likes the proposal.

Is it the end of Labour? Next week the government will call for an election in the UK. In a month we will have the answer. Memories of Lady Thatcher – who stated ‘there is not such a thing as society, just individuals’ – still haunt. Labour look more competent, especially in international matters, but they are out of steam and a time for change is due. 

Change is oxygen for democracy.

The Tory manifesto is persuasive but not so innovative. Despite  government reform, the Tories would continue on the same path:

• public service reform (reform of Welfare State in continental language or SSGI in Brussels language)
• establishment of a Social Bank with unclaimed assets and deposits in banks to develop capacity in the sector, now renamed Big Society Bank
• same approach to international development:
• old-fashioned aid
• and a new National Citizen Service, a sort of rebranded Salvation Army.

Interestingly enough, Gordon proposed compulsory volunteering. But whether it is Cameron or Brown, it’s the same idea: kindly forcing people into giving back to society. But we are left with the same problem: we live in a society of consumers who only move a finger to change TV channel. Same result: poor. Robespierre had this funny idea that the State must make people virtuous citizens. Look how goodwill ended up!

A few weeks ago we organised a roundtable discussion with our members and two Shadow Ministers: Europe and Third Sector. The Tories honestly confessed they were there to learn. Fair enough. However, the body language told us they found the lesson extremely boring. It must have been Europe.

This is the big question mark in the Tory agenda: Europe.

Even The Economist this week is encouraging David to make more efforts to get along with his European fellows. Foreign Affairs reminds us that a strong transatlatic partnership must go through Brussels. Tories might have become pro-society but really struggle with their European credentials. It’s a pity. They could be a source of change… They want to concentrate on people of Europe and we are ready to help them if they win 🙂

Both Labour and Tories want their chunk big while the country looks small. After the Iraq trauma and economic shock this country has gone into a bout of navel-gazing, forgetting its international vocation. Government or Society – why not mention the Market? It’s not about the size but the magic… and people find that magic in civil society. NGOs can mobilize people without forcing them, but by inspiring them. They don’t have to offer financial incentives, but ideas and passion.

You might be wondering why I care since I’m not a British citizen. You are right but:

• It’s Easter. I’m in London. The weather is crap as always. So I have time to work and think about these issues
• I live in London and wouldn’t move to any other place in Europe… perhaps Rio
• London is the global hub of civil society and most European capital in Europe. Let’s protect such a heaven

Unfortunately civil society in the UK hasn’t realized it’s potential yet,  and doesn’t take the lead, but follows.