In the wake of economic crisis and widespread unemployment, Podemos has quickly become one of the most dynamic political forces in Europe, offering a radical democratic alternative to austerity and the status quo. Barcelona-based activist Carlos Delclós was there to witness this rise first-hand, and in Hope is a Promise offers a timely narrative of the party’s origins within the wider indignados anti-austerity movement, as well as this movement’s successes in building popular support from below. In the process, these activists have redefined the concept of representative democracy, and shown that it is possible for radical movements to translate popular discontent around austerity into electoral success.
Featuring unique testimony by many of those involved in the party, this insightful and often inspiring account considers what the rise of Podemos means for the future of Europe, as well as for similar movements around the world.
