Zhuo Mingliang: "Five Theories" on the Development of the Contemporary World Socialist Movement — Based on an Analysis of Overseas Left-wing Forces
Currently, foreign left-wing forces serve as the primary subject for reflecting upon and synthesizing the experiences and lessons of the 19th and 20th-century international communist movement. They constitute the main force for pondering and assessing the current status and developmental prospects of the world socialist movement in the 21st century; their perspectives and positions merit our focused attention and in-depth research. The reflections and interpretations of foreign left-wing forces regarding the status and development of the world socialist movement are inseparable from a vital epochal background. As Xi Jinping pointed out while presiding over the 43rd collective study session of the Political Bureau of the 18th CPC Central Committee: "From the broad perspective of the 500-year history of world socialism, we are still in the historical era specified by Marxism." This is our basic foothold for conforming to the development of the times and judging the essence of the era. The "historical era specified by Marxism" refers to the historical process in which capitalism must perish and socialism must triumph, with socialism eventually replacing capitalism. This process is not smooth sailing, but rather a process of spiral ascent. Viewed from the current period, the typical characteristic manifested by this "historical era" is that the contest between the two systems and two ideologies has continued to this day and is exhibiting an increasingly anxious development trend.
World socialism has traversed more than 500 years of turbulent times. What is its developmental status today? In particular, more than 30 years after the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the drastic changes in Eastern Europe, have new opportunities for development emerged? What major significance does Socialism with Chinese Characteristics in the New Era hold for the world socialist movement? Where does the future path for world socialism lie? These are the major epochal questions that global left-wing forces urgently need to answer, and they are also the primary issues to be researched in this article.
I. "Opportunity Theory": The Revival of Contemporary World Marxism and Socialist Movements Welcomes New Opportunities
The development of human history is a unity of necessity and contingency. As long as human beings correctly exercise their subjective initiative, better analyze and grasp favorable objective and subjective conditions, and take action according to the objective laws of the development of things, they can push human endeavors forward, even turning passivity into initiative and transforming the decayed into the miraculous.
In 1852, Marx pointed out in The Eighteenth Brumaire of Louis Bonaparte: "Men make their own history, but they do not make it as they please; they do not make it under self-selected circumstances, but under circumstances existing already, given and transmitted from the past." Under the great changes unseen in a century, although the development of world Marxism and socialist movements still faces many unfavorable factors, it has also created many opportunities conducive to its own development by leveraging subjective and objective conditions. Patrik Köbele, Chairman of the German Communist Party, pointed out: "For global socialist forces, we are facing a problem of all mankind. Either the global balance of forces can be changed in a direction favorable to world socialism, favorable to opposing imperialism and advancing the workers' movement, or it will ultimately lead to barbarism, war, and eventually make human survival unsustainable." This is a major epochal question currently facing world socialism: whether human society will turn toward the broad road of socialism or continue to drift further away on the wrong path of capitalism. At present, "the continuous success of the Sinicization and modernization of Marxism has presented Marxism to the world with a brand-new image, causing a major shift favorable to socialism in the historical evolution and contest between the two ideologies and two social systems of socialism and capitalism on a global scale." This "shift" is developing into the depths of history and the era, centrally manifested in the grand historical trend of "the East is rising while the West is declining." That is, the leap in the overall strength of socialism and the contraction of capitalist forces are occurring simultaneously in our era. This change constantly tests the resilience and endurance of the two systems and two ideologies, constituting an important part of the great changes unseen in a century, and providing a rare historical opportunity for the revival of 21st-century Marxism and the world socialist movement. Based on a systematic analysis and assessment of various factors and conditions, foreign left-wing forces believe that despite still facing many difficulties, the developmental trend of human history has already exhibited a positive side conducive to the development of world socialism.
(i) The total bankruptcy of erroneous trends of thought such as the "End of History"
For more than 30 years since the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the drastic changes in Eastern Europe, erroneous trends of thought such as the "End of History" concocted by Western countries have been hovering over the world socialist movement like a lingering ghost. These trends of thought further exacerbated the unfavorable situation faced by the international communist movement and became an ideological smog affecting the restoration of confidence in the world socialist movement. The "End of History" was a "political propaganda war" launched by the international bourgeoisie and its agents after the international communist movement encountered major setbacks. On one hand, it attempted to demonstrate the "failure" of socialist construction in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe; on the other hand, it aimed to proclaim the "eternity" of the capitalist system and order. Xi Jinping pointed out: "Historical development is never a straight line, but is full of twists and turns. At the end of the 1980s and the beginning of the 1990s, the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the collapse of the CPSU, and the drastic changes in Eastern Europe not only led to the disintegration of the first socialist state and Eastern European socialist countries but also brought a serious shock to the vast number of developing countries yearning for socialism. Many developing countries were forced onto the road of copying Western institutional models. World socialism suffered serious setbacks, as the saying goes, 'ten thousand flowers fade and wither at once' [1]." After the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the drastic changes in Eastern Europe, Western countries directed the main spearhead of peaceful evolution toward China, hoping to "assimilate" or "tame" China in the process of absorbing it into the world trade system, expecting that the cause of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics would also undergo a change of flags and banners like that of the Soviet Union and Eastern European countries. Regarding this, Yuri Tavrovsky, the Russian chairman of the China-Russia Friendship, Peace and Development Committee, frankly stated: "For a long time, the US elite treated China's communist ideology as a residual phenomenon, believing that as it integrated into the US-led world order, this phenomenon would dissipate." In reality, the great achievements made by the cause of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics have taken Western strategists by surprise. The cause of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics has demonstrated the bankruptcy of erroneous trends of thought such as the "End of History" with irrefutable economic and social achievements. Regarding this point, Marco Rizzo, General Secretary of the Communist Party (Italy), believes: "When the Soviet Union dissolved, the chanters of capitalism fantasized about the 'end of history,' but never has any prophecy failed so completely. The development and expansion of class struggle worldwide, the emergence of countries in transition to socialism, and the remarkable developmental achievements made by socialist China have laid the foundation for the opening of a new stage of world socialism."
(ii) The public support base for the capitalist system and its mode of production is increasingly eroding
Under the grand historical trend of the great changes unseen in a century and "the East is rising while the West is declining," the defenders of capitalism have begun self-reflection and doubt. The assertion clamored by Francis Fukuyama and others that human history would end in capitalist civilization has encountered constant interrogation by reality; even he himself has developed doubts about his original viewpoint. In fact, the capitalist path is by no means a broad road or a smooth path for human society. While bringing great developmental progress to human society, it has also brought war, turmoil, hunger, and environmental pollution. The continuous outbreak of capitalist crises illustrates the unsustainability of this mode of production, and people of insight in capitalist countries have criticized this vehemently. Weerasinghe Gunasekara, former General Secretary of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka, proposed: "In today's world, the main global challenges facing humanity are fivefold: climate change, global terrorism, international financial crises, migration and refugee issues, and poverty and social inequality. Ultimately, these are products of imperialism. They have intensified the crisis of capitalism and accelerated its demise." Eugene McCartan, former General Secretary of the Communist Party of Ireland, asserted: "Capitalism is like a fatal invasive species that is destroying our planet. Socialism is the only system that can save our planet." Furthermore, foreign left-wing personages have elevated the current capitalist predicament to the level of a civilizational crisis, pointing out that the crisis of the capitalist system and mode of production is essentially a civilizational crisis of capitalism. For example, Najeeb Amado, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Paraguay, pointed out: "For a long time, capitalist financial hegemony has been constructing an inverse, decadent, and degenerate culture, which alienates and cools the relationships between people and tends to trivialize the public's perception of universal culture. Over the long term, humanity will become increasingly brutal, and the world will fall into various wars."
Due to continuous capitalist economic crises, the support rate for socialism among Western youth groups is continuously growing. A poll conducted in October 2017 by the "Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation," an anti-communist group supported by the US Congress, showed: "Among the youth group under the age of 35, 58% of respondents said they would prefer to live in a socialist (44%) or communist system, while 42% would prefer to live in a capitalist system." In August 2021, a poll conducted by Fox News showed that 59% of registered Democratic voters participating in the survey held a positive attitude toward socialism, while only 49% held a positive attitude toward capitalism. An article published by "In Defense of Communism" on July 22, 2025 [2], stated: "According to a survey by the Cato Institute and YouGov, among Americans aged 18–29, 62% have a 'favorable impression' of socialism, and 34% have a 'favorable impression' of communism." Multiple mass demonstrations and protest struggles that have erupted in the capitalist world—from the "Occupy Wall Street" movement and "Black Lives Matter" movement to the movements to topple statues of representative capitalist figures, to the strikes and demonstrations by various classes and professions such as teachers, students, truck drivers, and catering servers in Western society, and mass protest activities surrounding different themes such as environmental protection, human rights, and the rights of women and children—all highlight the predicament of the dwindling public support base for the capitalist system and its mode of production.
II. Methodology: The Advancement of World Marxism and Socialist Movements Requires Continuous Innovation of Methods and Paths
For over 30 years since the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the drastic changes in Eastern Europe, foreign left-wing forces have continuously synthesized historical experience during the low tide, assessed reality, analyzed future development prospects, and conducted prudent reflection on the methods and paths required for the forward development of contemporary world Marxism and socialism.
(i) Breaking through the shackles of dogmatism, integrating the basic principles of Marxism with the specific realities of one's own country, analyzing specific problems specifically, and continuously promoting the innovation of Marxist theory
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Carlos Martinez, co-editor of the "Friends of Socialist China" website, has suggested that "Western Marxist perspectives, characterized by purism and dogmatism, are completely incapable of understanding China. After more than a century of arduous struggle, Chinese leaders have explored a path that is both consistent with Chinese cultural traditions and adapted to the ever-changing reality of socialism." Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the drastic changes in Eastern Europe, many Communist Parties, when summarizing the relevant historical lessons, frequently mentioned one point: the previous practical application of Marxism had been marred by a dogmatic and sacrosanct understanding of basic Marxist principles. This caused the pace of Marxist innovation in many countries to stall and theoretical vitality to be stifled, ultimately leading to the collapse of those parties and states. As Xi Jinping emphasized at the conference marking the 200th anniversary of Marx's birth: "A scientific attitude must be adopted toward scientific theory," and "socialism does not have a single, fixed, or immutable model. Only by closely integrating the basic principles of scientific socialism with a country’s specific realities, historical and cultural traditions, and the requirements of the times—and by continuously exploring and summarizing through practice—can the blueprint be turned into a beautiful reality." Today, many foreign communists have recognized this, forming several new understandings and propositions. For instance, Mwandawiro Mghanga, National Chairperson of the Communist Party of Kenya, proposed: "The founders of socialism such as Marx and Engels, as well as revolutionary leaders like Lenin and Mao Zedong, all pointed out that Marxist theory is never a dogma, but a scientific theory that advances with the times [3]; it must be applied creatively in combination with specific historical conditions and material foundations." He added, "As Marxist parties, we share a common ideal, hoping to build a beautiful society without exploitation, where human potential is fully liberated and everyone achieves well-rounded development. However, our goals cannot be completed simultaneously or in the same manner; they must be achieved through differentiated ways and channels. Therefore, Kenya's model of socialist construction will necessarily differ from those of other countries like South Africa." A general conclusion drawn from these insights is that the basic principles of Marxism must be integrated with the specific realities of each country. This is the fundamental method for advancing the theoretical innovation of the localization and modernization of Marxism, and it holds significant strategic importance for promoting the development of the world socialist movement in the 21st century.
(II) Learning from the experience of the Communist Party of China (CPC), while avoiding mechanical copying and opposing the blind worship and simple imitation of other countries' experiences
Currently, foreign left-wing forces generally emphasize understanding and learning from the experience of the CPC. Krishna Bahadur Mahara, a member of the Standing Committee of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, noted: "Communists and socialists should learn from and draw on the experiences and lessons of communist movements in various countries. All left-wing parties in Nepal are very willing to learn from the successful experience of the CPC in revolution and construction."
First, many foreign left-wing forces believe that in the international communist movement and the world socialist movement, which are still generally in a low-ebb period, the successful experiences gained by some socialist countries or Communist Party organizations are precious and worth learning. Mauro Alboresi, National Secretary of the Italian Communist Party, pointed out: "The backgrounds and conditions of socialist causes in various countries are very different. Most Marxist parties find themselves in unfavorable situations, remaining on the defensive or in opposition during the struggle. Therefore, the current successful cases of China and several other socialist countries are not just a source of hope for us, but have made a huge contribution to the revival of socialist ideals and prospects on a global scale, and should receive extensive attention." In fact, the experience accumulated by the world's largest Marxist governing party is becoming an important reference guide for the 21st-century world socialist movement. Jaime Caycedo Turriago, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Colombia, noted: "If the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, as a world-historical phenomenon, propelled the founding of the People's Republic of China in October 1949, then the historical process of the People's Republic—with its civilization of over 5,000 years—has enriched the landscape of world revolution and socialist achievements." This assertion by Turriago profoundly reveals the international political significance and world-civilizational value of the CPC’s cause. Furthermore, Miguel Díaz-Canel, First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and President of the Republic, highly evaluated the international influence and appeal of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. At the CPC and World Marxist Political Parties Forum, he emphasized: "China's achievements are an inspiration and encouragement to the rest of the world. From a Marxist-Leninist perspective, the construction achievements of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the New Era, especially the thought of Comrade Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee and President of the State, provide important experience for socialist countries, Communist Parties, and left-wing forces throughout the world." To this end, Communist Party organizations in many countries have issued calls to study the experience of the CPC. For example, Francesco Maringio, a member of the Central Committee of the Italian Communist Party, once urged: "Other political parties around the world should study the CPC’s governance experience and draw inspiring lessons from it, just as the CPC thirstily learns from and draws on the essence of other civilizations and cultures."
Second, many foreign left-wing forces are thinking deeply about how to draw nourishment from the CPC’s experience in governing the country to benefit their own national revolutions and construction. Some foreign Communist Parties have proposed studying the history of the CPC, its important documents, and the works of Xi Jinping. Carolus Wimmer, Director of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Venezuela, noted in a congratulatory letter to the International Department of the CPC Central Committee: "The International Department of the Communist Party of Venezuela has earnestly studied the history of the CPC’s century-long struggle, and has applied the scientific viewpoints and methods from the CPC’s recent National Congress documents and General Secretary Xi Jinping’s work Xi Jinping: The Governance of China to analyze and study the experiences of socialist construction and the challenges it faces." Additionally, some Communist Parties believe it is necessary to study the essence of the CPC’s organizational principles, the mass line, and the method of contradiction analysis. For example, Massimiliano Ay, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Switzerland, pointed out: "The experiences summarized by the CPC in its century of practice—such as organizational principles, the mass line, and the dialectical handling of contradictions (we think of the dichotomy theory proposed by Chairman Mao Zedong)—are worth learning by communists worldwide. Each of us should, with a constructive attitude and while maintaining our own independence and respecting our respective geographic, cultural, social, and economic environments, learn from the experience of the Chinese communists."
Third, foreign left-wing forces have proposed specific paths for learning the main experience of the CPC, namely, learning through exchange and mutual appreciation. Foreign communist figures have pointed out that the theoretical and practical exploration of every Communist Party organization is extremely precious and should be doubly cherished. On this issue, the view of Mujahidul Islam Selim, President of the Communist Party of Bangladesh, is representative. He emphasized: "Although the roles of Communist Parties in different countries vary, the contribution of any communist party in the world to the international communist movement should not be ignored. They should not be treated as supporting actors; do not forget that 'a single spark can start a prairie fire' [4]." Foreign communists highly evaluate the open attitude of the CPC in its willingness to share its governance experience, viewing it as a "two-way journey" that meets the needs of the world’s communists. They hope to achieve mutual respect and mutual inspiration under conditions of equality. Robert Griffiths, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Britain, praised: "The achievements of the CPC are obvious to all and undeniable. What impresses me particularly is that the CPC is very modest when talking about its achievements; it is willing to exchange and discuss both strengths and weaknesses with communists from all over the world." Most importantly, the CPC’s sharing of Chinese experience with the international community is based on the principles of complete equality and voluntarism. This model of equal, non-coercive exchange and learning between large and small parties, based on the principle of voluntarism, is highly favored by foreign communists. In this process, foreign communists have also raised the question of how to correctly view and apply Chinese experience, demonstrating a sense of subjectivity and opposing the sanctification of Chinese experience or its blind application to their own domestic practices. The Communist Party of Britain pointed out: "Every country must find a path to socialism suited to itself, integrating universal principles with specific national conditions and applying them within the international environment. Each country should develop a unique socialist model in combination with its own national culture and the aspirations of its people."
III. Theory of Dynamics: One of the driving sources for the revival of the contemporary world socialist movement is the great achievements of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the New Era
In the view of foreign left-wing forces, the great achievements of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the New Era constitute a powerful driving force for the future revival of the contemporary world socialist movement. For example, Hanna Gharib, General Secretary of the Lebanese Communist Party, believes: "The future prospects of global socialism depend to a large extent on China and its ability to build and persist in socialism."
(I) The great transformations and achievements of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the New Era demonstrate the truth of scientific socialist theory, the legitimacy of the socialist path, the superiority of the socialist system, and the unique advantages of Communist Party leadership
Hugh Goodacre, Director of the Independent Institute in the UK, pointed out: "The great achievements of socialism with Chinese characteristics have already shown the whole world the enormous superiority of the socialist system compared to capitalism." In the view of foreign Communist Parties, the success of the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics represents the success of Marxism and highlights the truth of scientific socialist theory. Josef Skála, former Vice-Chairman of the Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia, believes: "The CPC is the largest communist party in human history, and its great success enables it to represent Marxists worldwide and defend the dignity of truth. Every success achieved in the struggle against those forces attempting to slander China through 'enemy images' has strengthened the CPC’s prestige and influence domestically." Tavrovsky believes: "After the collapse of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union and several other ruling Communist Parties, the CPC has not only held high the banner of world socialism but has also provided a viable alternative to the global hegemony of liberal capitalism." He added that the 100th anniversary of the founding of the CPC "proved to the whole of humanity the reality and attractiveness of the socialist path of development. Socialism with Chinese characteristics in the New Era will also become part of a series of great gifts contributed by Chinese civilization to all of humanity."
(II) The CPC’s theoretical and practical innovations are major innovations and developments in Marxist theory and the theory of the world socialist movement, creating historical opportunities for the movement’s development and bringing new hope to communists in all countries
The continuous success of socialism with Chinese characteristics has become a bright color during the low-ebb period of the international communist movement, igniting a "Chinese spark" and sowing seeds of hope amidst a climate of general silence [5]. Andrea Catone, editor-in-chief of the Italian journal MarxVentuno, pointed out: "The CPC has pioneered the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics toward socialism and established the theory of socialism with Chinese characteristics. This is the CPC’s important contribution to the development of Marxism and the international communist movement." Francesco Valerio della Croce, Director of the International Department of the Italian Communist Party, and others have pointed out: "The existence of a society of socialism with Chinese characteristics is a negation of the 'End of History' thesis that prevailed in the 1990s and early 21st century, as well as the cliché of capitalist inevitability. China also maintains friendly relations with the Communist Parties of other countries, thus becoming a tower in the darkest moments of the international communist movement. China has thereby sown the seeds of prestige." The four global initiatives proposed by Xi Jinping and the concept of building a community with a shared future for humanity have provided new space and important intellectual inspiration for the development of world socialism.
(III) Foreign left-wing forces expect the innovative theories of the Sinicization and modernization of Marxism to exert greater international influence and shaping power
As the world's largest Marxist governing party, it is only right that the CPC make a greater contribution to the world socialist movement and human development. Higinio Polo, head of the Asia-Pacific section of the International Relations Department of the Communist Party of Spain...
Paolo pointed out: "The Communist Party of China has the capacity to govern such a vast and populous country, and it should also take up the mission of promoting the international communist movement to move the world toward socialism." Foreign leftist forces believe that the strategic planning, people-centered nature, and the charisma of the innovative theories of the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics have already exerted a significant international influence. Joga Rajaru, a member of the Central Education Department of the Communist Party of India, pointed out: "Comrade Xi Jinping put forward the right ideas for the future development of China's socialist cause at the right time and in the right way. These ideas may be directed only at the CPC and the Chinese people, but they actually reveal universal problems in the world," and "The development plans proposed by the CPC can serve as a model and reference for all people struggling for socialism." Some leftists believe that as China’s comprehensive national power increases, the international influence of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era will grow ever larger. For instance, Hiroshi Onishi, a professor of economics at Keio University in Japan, pointed out: "China's economic development is the result of the Sinicization of Marxism. When China has become a world-recognized major power in terms of scientific and technological leadership and international influence, emphasizing the charisma of 'thought' will be necessary work for China to continue maintaining its international influence and achieving world-class development on a higher level in the future."
IV. Difficulty Thesis: Current World Socialist Development Faces Several Urgent Breakthrough Problems
Upholding revolutionary optimism and a cautious attitude, foreign leftist forces have soberly assessed various favorable and unfavorable conditions, dialectically analyzed the international situation facing today's world socialist movement, and identified the challenges and dilemmas requiring urgent solutions, which constitutes the "difficulty thesis" regarding the development of contemporary world socialism. As for the reasons, on the one hand, as Keith Bennett and Martinez have pointed out: "Since the October Revolution of 1917, various serious attempts have been made in Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, South America, and Africa to establish and build socialism, with varying degrees of success. Therefore, we can say that in the course of the struggle to establish and build socialism, humanity has accumulated certain experiences and lessons, both positive and negative. But at a more fundamental level, in the long process of human history, socialism remains a very novel system still in its nascent stage." On the other hand, Moreno pointed out: "The crisis sweeping through the entire Western capitalist world is an excellent opportunity to reposition socialist thought and expand its influence," but "it would be a great mistake to conclude now that socialism is sitting pretty. Socialism still needs to continue developing and perfecting itself to adapt to changing environments. Socialism should remain vigilant against the plans of international capitalism, which is trying to isolate or blackmail socialism, or is greedily waiting for socialism to experience turmoil or a 'peaceful transition' [6] leading to internal collapse." Furthermore, among current world socialist forces, there are serious problems of "inner-fighting" or "internal attrition" within specific countries and organizations, hindering the leap in the overall strength of world socialism.
(1) Suppression by Capitalist Governments Causes Serious Damage to the Image of Communist Parties and the Socialist System
On the one hand, Communist Parties within capitalist countries often encounter encirclement and suppression by governments; some of the Party’s normal activities are restricted, and the domestic environment for struggle is relatively harsh. In Europe, the European Parliament passed the so-called "Resolution on the Condemnation of Crimes of Totalitarian Communist Regimes" in 2007; in 2014, the Ukrainian Parliament passed Law No. 2558 with 254 votes—the law condemning communist and Nazi totalitarian regimes and prohibiting the public use of their symbols. In Asia, in 2002, the Philippine government declared the New People's Army, led by the Communist Party of the Philippines, a so-called terrorist organization, and prompted the United States and the European Union to also list it as an international terrorist organization, freezing its overseas assets; in 2025, the Syrian Interim Government issued a decree banning the activities of all parties in the "National Progressive Front," including the Syrian Communist Party. In North America, the United States established the so-called "Victims of Communism Memorial" in Washington and supported Georgia in establishing a Museum of Soviet Occupation.
On the other hand, Western public opinion often directs the brunt of its vilification toward existing socialist countries and their Marxist ruling parties. Every achievement and step of development made by socialism encounters a joint encirclement and suppression by Western media. In the arena of international public opinion, the West ignores objective facts and its own problems, observes socialist countries through "tinted spectacles" [7], and spares no effort in utilizing various media resources to slander socialist democracy as "autocracy" or "dictatorship," constantly launching ideological wars of vilification against socialist countries. Turriago, General Secretary of the Colombian Communist Party, described it: "Socialist countries have opened up a path to replace capitalism, namely the socialist path. In the environment of international confrontation, under the leadership of the major capitalist countries—especially the United States—imperialism relentlessly and with ulterior motives fabricated another 'Black Legend' [8], aimed at blackening the current situation of socialist countries and slandering the achievements and progress they have made."
(2) Internal Issues like Dogmatism and Sectarianism Seriously Suppress the Endogenous Impetus for Communist Organizations to Grow and Expand
The history of the international communist movement shows that the long-term existence and profound influence of erroneous trends of thought, such as dogmatism and sectarianism, have a huge impact on the success or failure of the communist movement. Sergio Ortiz, former Chairman of the Liberation Party of Argentina, believes: "Dogmatism not only caused harm to the revolutionary cause historically but today its remnants are still not eliminated worldwide." Sérgio Dias Branco, a member of the Portuguese Communist Party and a researcher at the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies of the 20th Century at the University of Coimbra, likewise believes: "Concepts and practices of dogmatism and sectarianism... are detrimental to unity of action, especially to internationalist solidarity with other progressive and leftist forces." Moreno also pointed out: "Legacy dogmatism seriously hinders us from drawing strength from materialism and dialectics to recognize reality and take action. The resulting consequence is that theory is either undervalued or confined to academic fields lacking transformative practice. If we lack the ability to carry out ideological struggle in all aspects, the ability to establish an alternative regime, and the determination to win political leadership... then it is impossible for us to win a place, nor can we defeat our opponents." The forward development of the world socialist movement urgently requires first overcoming these "chronic ailments" existing within itself.
(3) The Phenomenon of Fighting Individual Battles is Prominent, with a Lack of Effective Mechanisms for International Alignment
Lenin once pointed out: "By uniting, they can merge into a mighty stream of revolutionary fire, which no power in the world can resist." Based on this, if alliance can be achieved at both international and domestic levels, it will burst forth with tremendous practical energy; such an alliance must be both in worldview and in methodology. Yet the reality is that current international communist forces mostly face a situation where "dual divisions"—domestic and international—coexist. Although advocating for internationalist alliance and solidarity has become the common cry of Communist Parties worldwide, "the chronic ailments of sectarianism and differences within the international communist movement still exist. The differences, and even exclusiveness, between the theoretical cognitions and development paths of Communist Parties in various countries have always persisted." And what is particularly difficult, as Rizzo emphasized, is: "While the opponents of socialism join hands to strengthen the oppression of the labor movement, and various wars launched by imperialism against socialist countries continue to reach a fever pitch, communists of all countries have not yet found a truly effective form of cooperation and mutual aid to promote the growth of the international communist movement."
V. Path Forward Thesis: Relying on Strengthening the Party's Self-Construction and the Great Unity of International Communist Forces to Advance the Resurgence of the World Socialist Movement
Dimitris Koutsoumbas, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Greece, pointed out at a televised meeting of the European Communist Initiative commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Soviet Union that the 30-plus years from 1991 to 2022 represent a "period of modern capitalist barbarism" suffered by humanity after the collapse of the Soviet Union, "but we believe that the restoration of counter-revolution cannot change the nature of the era; the 21st century will be the century when the world revolutionary movement welcomes a new high tide." In the view of foreign leftist forces, the future requires relying on strengthening the Party's self-construction, innovating forms of international alliance and organizational principles, promoting the great unity of international communist forces, and defending the international honor and image of socialist countries like China to advance the resurgence of the world socialist movement. This constitutes the "path forward thesis" of foreign leftist forces regarding the development of the contemporary world socialist movement.
(1) Strengthen the Party's Self-Construction, Develop Comprehensive and Strong Capacities, and Fulfill the Historical Responsibility of the Communist Party as Torchbearer and Vanguard
Engels pointed out: "In practice, the Communists are the most resolute, always urging-forward section of the working-class parties of every country." Communist Parties in various countries recognize that only by continuously strengthening the Party's self-construction and expanding the Party's mass base and political influence can they become the leaders and promoters of social development and human progress. Rijal pointed out: "In order to achieve socialist goals, there should be a strong, well-imaged Communist Party as the bearer of change and progress. We should continuously improve our own construction to make the Communist Party strong. The future of socialism depends on a strong and progressive Communist Party." Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli, Chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), pointed out: "The Communist Party is like a torchbearer; its role is unique and special. It leads the revolution and opens up the cause of socio-economic change and prosperity. This is why the leadership of the Communist Party is necessary for national governance and prosperity." The South African Communist Party emphasized: "For the Party to be a vanguard is by no means something that can be achieved simply by declaration, nor can it be easily realized; it means possessing the capacity to play a leading role in the waves of mass struggle at the local, national, and even international levels."
(2) Reach an Ideological Consensus on the Great Unity of International Communist Forces; Innovate New Forms of International Alliance and Organizational Principles
Marx and Engels pointed out in the Manifesto of the Communist Party: "United action, of the leading civilized countries at least, is one of the first conditions for the emancipation of the proletariat." Georgy Kryuchkov, a member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Ukraine, pointed out: "The current international situation urgently requires various progressive forces, especially all Communist Parties, to work together in opposing imperialism and hegemonism. The blows dealt by imperialism and hegemonism to various progressive forces and fighters for social equality and justice are becoming more severe; strengthening the international alliance of the communist movement is more important than ever." Martinez also proposed: "We have an action plan: oppose dogmatism and purism, oppose Eurocentrism and chauvinism, and return to a global united front composed of existing socialist countries, oppressed nations, the working class of imperialist countries, and progressive forces. This is our path to the future socialism."
Regarding the methods of international alliance, Victor Kot, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Argentina, especially emphasized the importance of international coordination mechanisms, proposing: "We must strengthen the mechanisms for dialogue and coordination between various Communist and revolutionary parties on a global scale." He believes: "Only in this way, when disasters strike and human life is threatened, can various leftist political parties and factions take effective action, communicate and discuss specific agendas in time, and jointly respond to crises." Ayi pointed out: "Civic and self-referential internationalism is not enough; we need to innovate the practice of internationalism to make it not only a symbol of solidarity once again but also an effective tool of cooperation capable of influencing reality." When discussing this issue, many foreign Communist Parties emphasized the need to cooperate based on diversity and to conduct voluntary and equal dialogue and exchange, opposing a single model. For example, Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, a member of the Standing Committee of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), proposed: "Due to the different levels of development in various countries, there cannot be a single, universal revolutionary model for building socialism in the world. Communists should exchange experience and cooperate in a way of unity in diversity (rather than monolithic unity)." Canel believes: "The current state of the world proves the necessity and urgency for Marxist parties to unite to face common challenges; only unity based on diversity can ensure victory."
(3) Defending the international honor and image of socialist countries, such as China, as a mission-task and a critical component of advancing international unity.
Foreign Left forces believe that the developmental status, international prestige, and future destiny of socialist countries like China are closely linked—sharing a common fate [9]—with the future of the global forces of peace and justice. They particularly emphasize that defending the international honor and image of socialist countries is an important mission and task in advancing international unity. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) maintains that: "With the collapse of the Soviet Union, US imperialism, leveraging its economic, political, and military power, is expanding aggressively to establish its hegemonic status. Imperialist-led globalization seeks to consolidate itself through the eastward expansion of NATO and military interventions worldwide to impose an imperialist order. Socialist countries such as China, Vietnam, Cuba, the DPRK, and Laos remain firmly committed to developing the cause of socialism despite the disadvantageous situation formed by the shift in the balance of power. Imperialism, however, schemes to subvert existing socialist countries and launches continuous offensives against them in the ideological, economic, and political spheres." From the perspective of foreign Communist organizations, the Western strategy of "Color Revolutions" [10] still lists existing socialist countries as primary targets. The political resolution of the 26th National Congress of the Communist Party of Ireland pointed out: "The United States maintains over 800 military bases around the world, and the focus of these bases is increasingly directed toward the East, with nearly 400 military bases in the Indo-Pacific region surrounding China," and "the major capitalist powers in Europe, especially Germany and France, are also cooperating with the United States through NATO to adopt a strategy of encircling Russia and confronting China." Regarding this point, Fosco Giannini, former director of the International Department of the Communist Refoundation Party (Italy) and former Senator of the Italian Republic, also noted: "For years, the disintegration and partitioning of China has been one of the primary goals of the imperialist camp. If China were weakened or even suffered national division, the entire global landscape would be vastly different, and the world anti-imperialist front would suffer a major blow. If China’s influence were seriously weakened, the entire world might succumb to the rule of the transatlantic alliance; the BRICS alliance and the great Belt and Road Initiative might cease to exist, and even those countries in the process of national liberation would suffer even greater setbacks."
Based on this, it is the bounden duty and responsibility of Communist parties in all countries to oppose slanderous rhetoric, break through Western lies regarding China, and defend the international honor and image of socialist countries. Robert Griffiths [11] emphasized: "Communist parties worldwide have a responsibility to counter the campaign of false and hostile propaganda launched against the Communist Party of China by the capital interests and state apparatuses of countries like the United States, Britain, and Australia. Such propaganda makes it easier for these governments to pursue anti-China policies; therefore, its influence on public opinion in said countries must not be underestimated." He further noted: "Each Communist party should independently undertake the responsibility of struggling for socialism in its own country. The Communist Party of China has the strength, vision, and capacity to realize its 21st-century goals. However, the greater the opportunities facing the development of socialism in China and across the world, the greater the danger of a combined capitalist counter-attack, subversion, and interference. Therefore, in the coming decades, strengthening international solidarity will become increasingly important for Communist parties in all nations." Povel Johansson, Chairman of the Communist Party (Sweden), and International Secretary Markus Jönsson pointed out that "the current unilateral public opinion struggle in the Western world is false, full of lies, and malicious," and that "the Communist Party (Sweden) resolutely supports the People’s Republic of China in its struggle against the attempts and actions of external forces to interfere in China's internal affairs and undermine China’s national stability."
VI. Conclusion
In summary, the latest theoretical insights of foreign Left forces regarding the development of the contemporary world socialist movement are important investigative results based on the changing developments of the current global situation, national conditions, popular sentiment, and party dynamics. These insights both review the past and judge the present while analyzing the future; they soberly analyze current difficulties and challenges while pointing out methods for breaking the deadlock. Most foreign Left forces consistently maintain a position of revolutionary optimism and remain full of confidence in the future development of the world socialist movement. For example, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka, Dr. G. Weerasinghe, pointed out succinctly: "Although the world socialist movement once suffered major setbacks, it has now moved from its low point toward a revival and is advancing steadily." However, we must keep in mind that the current revitalization of the world socialist movement is not something that can be completed overnight; this process will involve various confrontations and even fierce clashes between two systems and two ideologies. Every step human history takes toward socialism will encounter obstruction and destruction from old things and the old order. Canel [12] pointed out: "The ancient and formidable 'specter of communism' is once again holding high the banner of hope and sweeping the globe, which makes those actions targeting the people and questioning the status quo even more aggressive, aiming to use every possible means to prevent socialism from proving its possibility, feasibility, and developmental potential." Therefore, for a relatively long historical period to come, the "strength of capitalism versus the weakness of socialism" and the "strength of the West versus the weakness of the East" will remain the main theme and primary characteristic of the era.
However, we should simultaneously recognize that with the improvement of the economic strength and international influence of socialist countries like China, the historical trend of "the East rising and the West declining" [13] is becoming increasingly evident. "Capitalist strength and socialist weakness" is the "stock"—representing history—while "the East rising and the West declining" is the "increment," guiding the future. The forces of justice will surely defeat and replace the rule of old, evil forces. Socialism wins the hearts of the people, represents the newborn, and signals the forward direction of history and the beautiful future of humanity; it is an inevitable historical trend that no political force can block. Socialism gives people not only a hope for progress but also the courage to strive forward. This point is particularly prominent in the Communist Party of China—which maintains a global perspective—and the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the New Era, which seeks to forge happiness for humanity. The great achievements and great transformations of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the New Era provide important experiential references and an inexhaustible source of confidence and momentum for the revival of the world socialist movement. As Toma Ivan, former member of the Central Committee of the Romanian Communist Party and former First Secretary of the Union of Communist Youth, emphasized: "The 21st century is an unprecedented era; although the technological leap and social informatization have infinite potential, they have also brought unprecedented crises, dilemmas, and conflicts. Looking to the future, socialism will certainly be able to revive on a broader scale. This great social system originates from people's sincere yearning for a better life; no matter how the world changes in the future, this beautiful yearning cannot be suppressed or deprived; it will live forever in the hearts of the people."
(Author’s Affiliation: Institute of Marxism Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences) Source: Contemporary World and Socialism (当代世界与社会主义) No. 5, 2025 Editor: Huihui