solidaritas

Solidaritas is a concept in sociology and political discourse that refers to unity and mutual support among members of a group, especially when pursuing shared goals or facing common difficulties. It implies interdependence and a sense of responsibility for others within a community, and it can animate collective action, social welfare, and humanitarian response. The term is used across languages to describe both informal acts of helping neighbors and organized political or social movements.

Etymology: The word derives from roots that emphasize wholeness and cohesion. In many languages it appears as solidarity or solidaritas, with Indonesian usage adopting solidaritas as the standard term for the same idea.

Contexts and forms: Solidarity operates at multiple levels. In labor and political contexts, workers and activists mobilize in solidarity with colleagues or with marginalized groups, for example through strikes, petitions, or demonstrations. In social policy, solidarity underpins welfare arrangements and public services funded by shared obligation rather than individual entitlement. In humanitarian and international contexts, solidarity drives aid and advocacy across national borders. Practical expressions include mutual aid networks, community funds, and volunteer organizing.

Criticisms and limits: Critics note that solidarity can be selective, reinforcing in-groups and excluding out-groups, or used rhetorically to mask power imbalances. Its effectiveness often depends on stable norms, institutions, and reciprocal expectations.

See also: mutual aid, social solidarity, internationalism, labor movement, humanitarian aid.