Global South Review
Vol 7, No 2 (2025): Global South Review

The Southern Voice: Zapatista and the Challenge towards Neoliberal Agenda in a Globalized World

Gultom, Yosua Saut Marulitua (Unknown)
Andara, Namira Naza (Unknown)
Hutauruk, Muhammad David Ferdian (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
12 Sep 2025

Abstract

The Zapatistas, emerging in the early 1990s in Chiapas, Mexico, advocate for indigenous autonomy, participatory democracy, and social justice, offering a powerful critique of neoliberal globalization. Their decentralized governance model, based on autonomous municipalities known as "caracoles," emphasizes collective consensus, horizontalism, and grassroots self-governance, challenging conventional power structures. This study utilizes qualitative research through literature analysis and frames its discussion within critical perspective. By critiquing neoliberal policies and advocating for indigenous dignity and autonomy, the Zapatistas underscore the detrimental impacts of globalization on marginalized communities, presenting a broader struggle against capitalist exploitation. It explores the Zapatistas’ ideological foundations, strategic resistance to NAFTA, and its critique of neoliberal globalization highlighting its significance for global social movements. The movement’s unique operational model contrasts with Mexico's hierarchical systems, promoting local authority and community empowerment. The Zapatistas' commitment to gender equality, education, healthcare, and improved living standards reflects their vision of a pluralistic and inclusive society. Their slogan, "a world where many worlds fit," continues to inspire contemporary social movements worldwide, advocating for a just and equitable society.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

globalsouth

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Environmental Science Social Sciences Other

Description

Global South Review is a social and political journal that aimed to provide academic and policy platform to exchange views, research findings, and dialogues within the Global South and between the Global North and the Global South. Global South Review examines all the issues encountered by Global ...