reformist

Reformist is a term used to describe a person who seeks to reform or improve a political, social, religious, or institutional system by gradual, non-revolutionary means within existing structures. The word can function as an adjective (reformist policy, reformist approach) or as a noun (a reformist). In political contexts, reformists advocate changes through legal channels, elections, policy debates, and reform within institutions rather than overthrow of the system. They often emphasize incremental change, consensus-building, and the protection of stability while expanding rights, accountability, or efficiency.

Religious and ideological contexts also use reformist to describe currents aiming to reinterpret or modernize doctrines and practices while remaining within the tradition. Examples include reform movements that argue for returning to core principles and adapting to contemporary social realities, rather than rejecting the tradition entirely.

Reformists are sometimes contrasted with radicals or revolutionaries who seek rapid, fundamental change through upheaval, or with conservatives who resist changes. The term can be neutral or pejorative, depending on perspective and context.

Critics argue that reformism can be slow, incremental, and limited by existing power structures, while supporters contend it is the most viable way to achieve durable improvements and prevent instability. Success for reformist efforts often depends on political opportunity, coalition-building, and institutional openness to change.

Historical and contemporary examples include liberal reformers working within constitutional systems, social-democratic or progressive movements, seeking gradual expansion of welfare and rights, and religious reformers seeking modernization within religious frameworks.