Anarchosyndicalists

Anarchosyndicalists are proponents of anarcho-syndicalism, a form of anarchism that treats labor unions as the main instrument for social change. They advocate a stateless, classless society in which workers exercise direct control over the means of production through federations of autonomous unions. Political parties and state institutions are generally rejected as vehicles for genuine reform, with the union movement being the primary vehicle for revolutionary change.

Central to anarchosyndicalist thought are worker self-management, direct action, and federalism. They emphasize that workplaces should be governed by workers themselves, that decisions are made through grassroots assemblies, and that unions across industries coordinate through confederations. Direct action, including strikes and workplace occupations, is seen as the most effective way to push for immediate improvements and to undermine capitalist power without reliance on instrumental politics. The general strike is often identified as the ultimate expression of collective worker power.

Historically, anarchosyndicalism arose in the late 19th and early 20th centuries within various labor movements in Europe and North America. Notable historically associated organizations include Spain’s CNT and the CNT-FAI, and the American IWW, all of which linked industrial unionism to anarchist principles. The Spanish Civil War era saw widespread worker self-management and collectivization under anarchist influence, though subsequent repression reduced its long-term impact. In the present, small but persistent anarchosyndicalist groups continue to advocate direct action, mutual aid, and confederal organization, often operating within broader anti-capitalist or libertarian socialist currents.

Critics argue questions of feasibility, internal democracy, and the challenges of coordinating large-scale action. Proponents contend that worker-centric organization remains a fundamental alternative to centralized-state or corporate control.