Jeremy Corbyn on Tony Blair Institute for Global Change
TL;DR
Jeremy Corbyn views the institute and its associated ideology as representing a rightward shift in politics that he fundamentally opposes.
Key Points
He explicitly stated in 2024 that the former Prime Minister should have no involvement in discussions regarding Gaza.
He previously suggested that the political fallout from the 2016 referendum was partly due to the political direction set by the former Prime Minister's legacy.
He has expressed concern regarding an argument about patriotism being advanced by an entity linked to the former Prime Minister.
Summary
Jeremy Corbyn has consistently voiced strong opposition to the politics associated with the former Prime Minister, which the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change is seen to promote. This opposition extends to his criticism of the institute's work and influence, especially regarding foreign policy issues like the conflict in Gaza, where he explicitly stated the former Prime Minister "should be nowhere near Gaza." The negative stance reflects a broader ideological conflict between Corbyn's socialist politics and the centrist or centre-right policies often advocated by the institute.
This ideological divide is rooted in Corbyn's long-standing critique of New Labour, suggesting the institute represents a continuation of policies he found detrimental to the Labour Party's working-class base. He has implied that the policies championed by the institute's founder often fail to address fundamental societal inequalities or represent progressive values effectively. His position positions him as an internal opponent to this school of thought within the broader political spectrum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jeremy Corbyn maintains a position of strong opposition to the ideology and perceived influence of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. He views it as representative of a political direction he has long argued against. His public comments often frame the institute's work in a negative light, particularly concerning foreign policy.
His stance has remained consistently critical, rooted in his long-standing ideological opposition to the former Prime Minister's political project. While specific comments may vary depending on the current event, the fundamental disagreement with the centre-ground politics promoted by the institute appears unchanged.
Jeremy Corbyn stated unequivocally that the former Prime Minister should be excluded from any involvement in discussions or initiatives concerning Gaza. This comment highlights a specific policy area where he sees the institute's associated political influence as actively harmful or inappropriate.
Sources7
Tony Blair should be nowhere near Gaza – watch my full interview on Trump’s board of directors
Progressives haven’t lost the argument on patriotism – we have failed to make one
Brexit followed by Corbyn put UK ‘flat on its back’
The gospel according to Blair
The future of liberal democracies
The Corbyn era in the British Labour Party—a Marxist interloper in the party of reform
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.