1. The Power of Nonviolent Action workshop Cape Town, 24-26 November

2. Introduction to Non Violent Action Learning objectives: What is the traditional view of power? Who are true power-holders in society? What is the basis of nonviolent action? Does context matter?

3. Traditional view: Power as CONTROL of material resources & CAPACITY for violence Money and guns: ultimate source of POWER

6. Who holds power? -Power in hands of few individuals Examples: Elite Wealthy Rulers Leaders Politicians Police

7. Behaviour Patterns Why do people “obey”? – People feel there’s no alternative way – Lack of confidence: actions can make a difference Key: Forgotten that…

8. People are true power-holders

15. In politics, power is never given, it’s always taken Non Violent action based on insight: – Power in society is ultimately derived from people’s CONSENT & OBEDIENCE – If people do not obey, then rulers or corporations can’t rule

16. People’s Power All institutions & systems in society DEPEND on ongoing consent, cooperation & obedience of large numbers of people If people choose to WITHDRAW their CONSENT & COOPERATION in an organised & strategic way, then people can wield power

17. Balance of Power Shifts By creating SHIFTS in people’s loyalties & obedience patterns, Balance of Power in society SHIFTS Research found: – Nonviolent movements were successful because they wielded power greater than opponents

18. Misunderstandings: Non Violence Violence works quickly. Non Violence takes long Non Violence is weak Non Violence is Pacifism Need a charismatic leader Religion/Culture specific Based on ethical principles

19. History shows… Through collective action, people who are organised around a collective vision & act strategically, are stronger than armies & money

20. What are the figures? Erica Chenowith and Maria Stephan Violent vs. Nonviolent Movements, 1900-2006 Results – 53% success: nonviolent campaigns – 26% success: violent resistance campaigns

21. Context matters No one-size fits all recipe for success Each situation has complex context BUT Principles that govern Non Violent action, constant across all struggles

22. Resources Content: Gene Sharp: There are Realistic Alternatives (2003) Hardy Merriman: Agents of Change (2008) Hardy Merriman: The Trifecta of Civil Resistance (2010) Maria Stephan and Erica Chenoweth: Why Civil Resistance Works Photographs: David Harrison

23. Thank you