In 1966, a group of young members of the Dutch Labour Party (PvdA) started a movement within the party called “10 over Rood” (10 on Red). This movement aimed to bring about a renewal and modernization of the party’s policies and structures, in response to the changing social and political landscape of the time.
The name “10 over Rood” referred to the fact that the movement believed the PvdA needed to move further to the left on the political spectrum, beyond the traditional social democratic positions of the party. The movement advocated for more radical and progressive policies, such as increased social welfare programs, nationalization of key industries, and a more active role for the state in the economy.
The movement’s ideas were laid out in a pamphlet titled “10 over Rood,” which was published in 1966. The pamphlet called for a more egalitarian society, with a focus on social justice and solidarity. It critiqued the party’s leadership for being too conservative and resistant to change, and called for a more participatory and democratic decision-making process within the party.
The ideas put forth in the pamphlet sparked a lively debate within the PvdA, with some members embracing the ideas of “10 over Rood” and others rejecting them as too radical. The movement gained support among the party’s younger members, who saw it as a way to revitalize the party and make it more relevant to the concerns of the working class and marginalized groups in Dutch society.
Ultimately, the ideas of “10 over Rood” had a significant impact on the PvdA, leading to a shift towards more leftist policies and a greater emphasis on social justice and equality within the party. The movement also paved the way for the rise of new leaders within the party who were more aligned with the ideas of the movement.
While the “10 over Rood” movement may not have achieved all of its goals, it was an important moment in the history of the PvdA and a testament to the power of grassroots activism within political parties. It demonstrated that change is possible within established political institutions, and that a dedicated group of individuals can make a difference in shaping the future direction of a political party.