I was first introduced to the WSWS by a friend of mine. I have always been interested in socialist politics, but had until that time always articulated my views based on what I disagreed with more than a solid theoretical base. Whilst I knew what I didn’t think was right in the world, I found it difficult to develop that into a coherent political argument. This was particularly frustrating in discussions with friends from both similar and opposite political loyalties—without a broad base of knowledge, it is difficult to discuss and compare ideas. The WSWS has given me more of a framework for my ideas—what we as international workers should be working towards, what it is specifically about our current regimes that are holding humanity back.

The WSWS has a strong and relentless focus on exposing social and political injustice and hypocrisy around the world. What I have always found particularly enlightening are the articles and opinion pieces analysing the actions of “centre-left” parties and groups such as New Labour and the unions. As a teacher, I myself have been extremely frustrated with the [National Union of Teachers] NUT’s modes of operating, and the realisation that this is part of a wider problem was eye-opening. The truth behind the unions’ complicity in pushing back workers’ rights makes much more sense when played out against the back drop of the international attack on workers’ rights and the ever widening gap between the rich and poor, which union chiefs stand to benefit from.

I have not always agreed with the site ( I find the film reviews particularly maddening!) But what I think IS important is the discussion and thinking points that the site generates. The WSWS really stands out as one of very few news reporting bodies who does not give at best a toothless “liberal” account, or at worst, unadulterated right-wing propaganda. By proposing an alternative view, one is given the opportunity to consider wholly new ideas not presented in the mainstream press, let alone in general conversation.

The site’s message on political education is perhaps its most important. In times such as we live in it is vital that people are presented with more than one view on the events of the day. The switch in blame from bankers to benefits claimants for the reason of our national deficit is an astonishing and heart-breaking example of what can happen when a corrupt political elite are able to constantly proclaim their own agenda through a supportively biased mainstream media.

For all these reasons I look forward to another 15 years of strong political analysis and debate on the role of the international working class.