The lecture “Internationalist Socialism vs. Nationalist Reformism” examines the historical conflict between internationalist socialism and nationalist reformism through the lens of the “Security and the Fourth International” investigation. It argues that the Fourth International, founded by Leon Trotsky, faced constant sabotage and infiltration by state security agencies, particularly during and after World War II.
The lecture emphasizes the critical importance of internationalism in the socialist movement, contrasting it with the tendency towards national opportunism that characterized many socialist parties in the early 20th century and continues to influence reformist politics. It asserts that the Fourth International, committed to world socialist revolution, became a target of governments precisely because it challenged the nation-state system and the capitalist order.
The investigation into the Fourth International’s security aimed to expose the extent of state surveillance and infiltration and to analyze the political motivations behind these actions. It sought to uncover the methods used by various intelligence agencies to disrupt and discredit the Trotskyist movement, including the use of agents provocateurs, disinformation campaigns, and even assassination. The lecture underscores that understanding this historical struggle is crucial for contemporary socialist movements to maintain their independence and integrity against ongoing state interference and the pressures of nationalist politics.
find the original article here: https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/08/28/bypf-a28.html