Zack Polanski, co-leader of the Green Party, recently sparked discussion on his podcast by outlining challenges to achieving a utopian society. He questioned whether individuals identifying as Right-wing or far-Right could integrate into such a vision.

Polanski’s Comments on Utopia

Polanski voiced strong support for a complete utopian society but highlighted potential obstacles posed by certain ideologies. “Before we go into complete Utopia, which I’m totally there for, there are people, though, who would identify as Right-wing, or indeed even far-Right,” he stated. “And no matter what humanity or community we put them in, they are set on destroying or pushing this toxicity. Do we think we can change their minds? Or is it a case of building a society that doesn’t include them?”

Historical Echoes in Utopian Thinking

Such rhetoric recalls earlier utopian advocates. In 1849, Friedrich Engels predicted that future conflicts would eliminate reactionary classes, dynasties, and even entire peoples, viewing it as progress.

Ideologies drawing from these ideas, including communism, resulted in massive casualties. Estimates place deaths under communist regimes at around 100 million during the 20th century, far exceeding figures from the Atlantic slave trade or Nazi actions.

Green Party’s Shifting Priorities

The Green Party has evolved, placing greater emphasis on issues like wealth redistribution, trans rights, anti-racism, and criticism of Israel, while environmental concerns receive less attention.

Green candidates often bear distinctive names such as Bliss, Cinnamon, Aurora, and Rainbow.

During parliamentary debates on transferring the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, the Greens remained silent, unlike Conservatives, Reform, Liberal Democrats, and some Labour MPs who opposed the move over risks to marine conservation and local populations.

Key Policy Positions and Style

The party promotes universal basic income, a higher minimum wage, expanded benefits, housing for undocumented immigrants, and reparations for historical injustices, proposing to fund these by overhauling capitalism.

Polanski’s communication style features concise soundbites that appeal to younger voters, particularly women under 25, who view opposition to these policies as rooted in hostility rather than pragmatism.